Statewide Education Tour: Gwinnett Business Leaders Join Labor Commissioner Barbara RIvera Holmes
BUSINESS LEADERS JOIN LABOR COMMISSIONER BARBARA RIVERA HOLMES AND GREATER GEORGIA TO TACKLE WORKFORCE READINESS

Norcross, GA —
Georgia’s momentum on workforce development was front and center this week as Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes joined Greater Georgia for a high-impact roundtable with local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and education advocates. The discussion focused on 2025’s landmark legislative wins, including the
Top State for Talent Act,
and how to translate them into real results for jobseekers and employers across the state.
“We’re not just talking about workforce readiness
—
we’re building it,”
said Commissioner Rivera Holmes.
“Thanks to Governor Kemp and leaders across Georgia, we’re aligning education with high-demand jobs, meeting the needs of employers, expanding second-chance opportunities, and creating a direct path from the classroom to a career.”
The roundtable highlighted key reforms championed by the Kemp Administration and the Georgia Department of Labor, including:
- The Top State for Talent Act, which integrates Georgia MATCH into graduation plans and expands pathways into in-demand careers.
- The Walking the Last Mile to Reentry Program, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals transition into the workforce.
- Targeted workforce investments in rural healthcare, foster youth, and college completion through new legislation passed this year.
“Having a strong pipeline of talent makes the difference in a small business,” added
Clara Richardson-Olguin, CEO of a Norcross business. “When state leaders listen to communities and take bold action, it creates real opportunity for families across Georgia.”
“These aren’t just policies on paper, they’re a lifeline for small businesses,” said
Yanin Fernandez, Co-Owner of restaurants in Norcross, Peachtree Corners, and Decatur. “Georgia is investing in the people who power our economy, and that’s how we stay ahead.”
The conversation is part of Greater Georgia’s ongoing effort to educate voters about legislation passed in the 2025 session that will impact Georgia families and businesses. Prior stops on the Statewide Education Tour include Stonecrest, Macon, and Savannah, GA.
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