TIOGA — Louisiana Central joined regional business and industry partners on Friday for a demonstration of Be Pro Be Proud.

Be Pro Be Proud is a mobile workforce development initiative designed to introduce students to high-demand skilled trades and technical careers. 

Joined by the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry and the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce, tours hosted at Tioga High School provided students with a look at careers in manufacturing, construction, energy, transportation, utilities and other skilled professions. The tours were also joined by regional employers, workforce leaders and community stakeholders to explore the program's potential to strengthen Central Louisiana's workforce pipeline. 

Chris Masingill, President and CEO of Louisiana Central, said that the initiative represents an important opportunity to connect economic development with workforce readiness.

"We talk a lot about attracting new investment, supporting our existing industries and creating opportunities across our 10-parish region. But the reality is that none of that happens without people. Our future's greatest economic development asset is the talent sitting in classrooms across Central Louisiana today."

Be Pro Be Proud uses a mobile, interactive learning environment to introduce students to skilled professions by allowing students to explore tools, equipment and skills associated with various careers, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world employment opportunities.