The Empower ME Workforce Development Academy is a comprehensive, year-long workforce readiness and leadership program designed to prepare underserved high school and college-age youth (ages 14–22) in rural Edgefield County to succeed academically, professionally, and personally. As a youth job training initiative, the Academy provides students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to thrive in higher education and the modern workforce.
The program emphasizes the core competencies today’s employers seek, including technical skills, academic enrichment, and essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving. Through targeted workshops, mentorship, and real-world learning opportunities, students gain the confidence, leadership, and employability skills required to transition successfully into post-secondary education, technical training, or meaningful employment.