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Representatives of Pepsi Bottling Group and Sara Lee Corporation met with DeKalb Technical College and the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce Wednesday April 8th to honor local manufacturers for their contributions to local economic growth and community partnerships.
"Georgia’s manufacturing operations including transportation equipment, aerospace, computers and electronics, food, paper, metal fabrication, textiles and plastics create state wealth by adding value to raw materials through application of people skills and investment in tools, technology and talent," Mr. McClarty said.
"Manufacturing Appreciation Week was developed by the Technical College System of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Economic Development to promote awareness of manufacturing and its importance to our state. Local manufacturers who have been in operation for a minimum of three years in Georgia and who demonstrate evidence and effectiveness in areas of corporate responsibility, economic impact and workforce excellence, compete in the small, medium and large categories. DeKalb Technical College and the DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce submitted a nomination on behalf of Pepsi Bottling Group and Sara Lee Corporation.
An important component of the week’s festivities is the educational focus and making school children aware of industry and manufacturing as a viable career option. Students from elementary, middle and high schools compete in a statewide placemat, poster and t-shirt design contest, respectively. Two DeKalb Public School students placed first this year. Lily Miller, a Lakeside High School senior, won first in the t-shirt design. Nabila Islam, a fifth grader at Kittredge Magnet School, won first place in the placemat competition. Each student was awarded $500.00.
"The technical colleges recognize the critical importance year-round, not just for this manufacturing appreciation week," said Robin Hoffman, DTC president. "Partnership that we have with the manufacturers in the community ensures economic prosperity and we appreciate that partnership and are committed to continue working with you to provide the training necessary for a qualified, competent workforce.”
Photo ID (l to r) Isaac Irby, Sara Lee Plant Manager; Loretta Hicks, Director of Economic Development for DeKalb Technical College; Donovan Kirkland, Pepsi Plant Manager; Robin Hoffman President DeKalb Technical College; and Leonardo McClarty, President/CEO of DeKalb Chamber of Commerce celebrate a proclamation declaring April 13-17 Manufacturing Appreciation Week in DeKalb County.
