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Amanda Richardson, Special Projects Manager

Amanda came to the System Office from Piedmont Technical College in February of 2016.  She began her work at the System Office as an Apprenticeship Consultant with Apprenticeship Carolina™ and transitioned into her current role as Special Projects Manager in May of 2019.  Amanda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Clemson University, an MBA from Southern Wesleyan University, and over 15 years of work experience in higher education. 

 

What three words would you use to describe yourself? 

I would describe myself as genuine, professional, and personable.  With me, what you see is what you get.  I enjoy casual conversations with my colleagues, but am also comfortable talking through detailed processes with external stakeholders.

 

Please tell us about your job: 

As the Special Projects Manager, I work with System staff, the Continuing Education Deans, the VP for Economic Development, and various external stakeholders to coordinate and manage workforce development projects (outside of readySC) that are assigned to our Division.

 

What is something that you love about your job? 

I love that this job allows me the opportunity to utilize my experience and to continue to learn about many different areas of the System through various projects.  Lifelong learning is very important to me.  I also like that no two days are the same, which keeps it exciting.

 

What drew you to the economic development field? 

My desire to help others and the ability of our Technical College System to meet the needs of individuals and communities.  It is rewarding to see participants train for skills that can allow them a brighter future, while also meeting employer needs and improving the local economy.  The efforts that our Division and System put forth on a daily basis have a huge impact around the state.  

 

What are some innovative and impressive workforce development programs currently emerging around the state?  

Since coming into this role, I have had the opportunity to work with the Department of Commerce and our technical colleges on the ManuFirstSC initiative.  This basic certification is an innovative solution to address urgent pipeline shortages in the manufacturing industry.  To date, over 1,000 South Carolinians have received the ManuFirstSC credential, and we continue to promote the program across the state in an effort to meet employer demand.

 

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