The Governor’s Office of Workforce Development has presented a check for $60,000 to the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce for the organization’s Industry Education Partnership program.

This partnership includes the Columbia County School System, the Chamber’s Manufacturers Council, National Science Center, and Augusta Technical College.  The partnership was formed two years ago to improve technology education in schools and create a more skilled work force.

Approximately $40,000 will be utilized to fund a Project Coordinator.  The remaining funds, along with a $25,000 grant from the Legislature, will be used to create and implement manufacturing-oriented education programs in Columbia County high schools and middle schools.