July–December 2003 Issue

A Regional Strategy for Technology Training
by Fred D. Baldwin

Kingsport, Tennessee, took a strategic look at its future, and saw that technology-oriented training was a key approach to building a more competitive workforce, and keeping its young people at home. The resulting Regional Center for Applied Technology is working hard to meet the growing demand for its classes.

Conference Report: Telecommunications and the Future of Appalachian Communities
by Fred D. Baldwin

ARC's 2003 fall conference showcased telecommunications projects that are transforming the way businesses, governments, and educational and health-care institutions in the Region are doing their work.

Creating Opportunity through Information Technology
by Fred D. Baldwin

The Blue Ridge Business Development Center uses information technology to spur business growth and expansion in rural Sparta, North Carolina. Its three-part approach: technical support for local businesses, hands-on technology training, and incubator assistance for small firms.

Inside Information: July–December 2003 Issue

ARC Launches Planning Process For Five-Year Strategic Plan; Interagency Coordinating Council on Appalachia Meets in Washington; ARC and FCC Partner to Expand Telecommunications Access in Appalachia; ARC Helps Launch New Southern Appalachian Venture Capital Fund; Conference Showcases K–12 Education Resources. Inside information, July–December 2003.

Shoals Commercial Culinary Center: Helping Specialty Food Businesses Take Off
by Carl Hoffman

Specialty food business start-ups are growing strong with help from Alabama's Shoals Commercial Culinary Center, which offers step-by-step business and marketing assistance and the use of a fully equipped commercial kitchen.

Appalachian Scene: Hands-on Training for Community Leadership
by Carl Hoffman

Developing strong leadership in Central Appalachian communities is the mission of the Brushy Fork Institute, an outreach arm of Berea College in Berea, Kentucky.