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September 5, 2018
OFFICE OF BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PHONE: 970-336-7204
FAX: 970-336-7233
1150 O STREET
P.O. BOX 758
GREELEY, COLORADO 80632
RE: Letter of support for a STEM Coalition in Weld County
This letter is submitted in support of the efforts by the advisory group to form a new coalition in Weld County. The
Weld County Board of Commissioners is very supportive of this groups' efforts to date with regard to looking at
multiple collaborative ways to make our Weld County workforce successful in STEM careers.
The top workforce sectors in our county include agriculture, energy production, manufacturing and health care.
Each of these sectors require workers skilled in STEM fields who are ready and trained to excel in these careers.
Weld County continues to be the state's leader in agricultural production, and it is imperative as technology
changes, water becomes scares and our youth continue to leave the farm that those individuals who want to remain
in the farming and ranching careers are trained and competitive. Partners like 4-H, Future Farmers of America
(FFA), and CSU Extension prepare those who want to go into agriculture -related fields, whether it is through
practicing veterinary medicine, growing crops, raising animals or exploring ways to use water efficiently. The ideas
the coalition has discussed with the Board will not only enhance some of these existing programs but also aide
students in the more rural parts of our county by finding ways to share educational resources county -wide.
In addition to agriculture, the energy sector (both traditional and renewable) plays a valuable role in Weld County.
This sector will need skilled workers from both traditional college backgrounds and trade backgrounds. Welders,
construction -related workers, commercial drivers, electricians — individuals with education in these skills will be
prime employees who can expect a well -paying income.
We recognize the need to continue to support efforts to train and educate all students for the workforce. For some, a
college education is the best path for their career. For others, certificate programs, internships and apprenticeships
will open employment opportunities that will continue to make Weld County competitive at not only the local level,
but also the state and national levels.
The Board of County Commissioners met a few months ago with the advisory group to discuss the group's ideas
and efforts. We were impressed with their desire to increase STEM -related jobs for the residents of Weld County
and to ensure our communities remain sustainable and prosperous. We wholeheartedly support their efforts to form
a coalition, and we think it is imperative to work across school districts, with post -secondary institutions, with the
business community and with government entities. Only by working together can we best ensure our students and
our economy thrive. Please consider being a part of this important coalition. Thank you.
Sincerely,
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Steve Moreno, Chair
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2018-2866
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