Paul D. Camp Community College will expand its Warehouse and Distribution Operations career studies certificate, thanks to Valley Proteins’ fourth annual Award for Workforce Development.

The award from the Valley Proteins Endowment Fund is designed to support workforce development programs at Virginia’s community colleges in the areas of environmental science, commercial truck driving, heating and air conditioning and office technology in regions where the company has its rendering operations.

“With the Valley Proteins Annual Award for Workforce Development, the college will conduct a needs assessment of area employers to determine the critical knowledge and skills needed for effective job performance by mid-level supervisors and managers,” Paul D. Camp President Paul Conco said. “Once the needs assessment is completed, we will design the necessary curriculum to ensure the continued development of our local workforce.”

The college developed its Warehouse and Distribution Operations career studies certificate several years ago, but funding provided training only for entry-level workers. Recently, high demand in the field prompted the area’s Regional Workforce Development Council to request a complementary curriculum in supply chain, logistics and supervision for mid-level management.

The Port of Hampton Roads has become a premier location for warehouse and distribution facilities, and major companies are increasingly looking to the PDCCC service region for new construction sites.

“As industries continue to move forward and expand, the need for our workforce moves forward with it,” said Michael A. Smith, vice president of Valley Proteins. “We are proud to be part of the effort to ensure this career studies certificate program is keeping pace with the areas demand.”

“The Virginia Foundation for Community College Education is dedicated to expanding opportunities by leveraging partnerships,” said Jennifer Gentry, executive director of the VFCCE.

“This endowment is a great example of the synergy that comes from joining together employers who are vested in the quality of tomorrow’s Virginia workforce and the community colleges that elevate it every day.”

This is the second time Paul D. Camp Community College has earned the award in four years.