SC. Lt. Gov talks growth, school choice, and youth jobs

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WJBF) — South Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor, Pamela Evette, made a stop in North Augusta today. She spoke with the Chamber about economic development and celebrated local achievements.

Evette discussed the state’s efforts to address future energy needs, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. “Making sure that we can think 30 years ahead into the future by creating more energy because to be able to grow and do what you guys are doing here. Working on cyber, working on the grid, all of that requires extra energy and a lot of it,” she said.

To make sure North Augusta’s projects are successful, the state is working with local lawmakers who understand the area’s needs. “That’s how we as state government find out what job careers we think will be deficient in the years to come and how we can put an emphasis on letting our young people know what jobs will be there for them when they come outta high school,” Lt. Evette added.

She also highlighted her commitment to business and education, including advocating for school choice and improving technical colleges. Evette introduced the YES Initiative, a program designed to connect youth with local job opportunities and teach them essential skills. The program links young people to local jobs via a new website, helping them gain skills and learn financial responsibility. “Whether it’s in an ice cream shop or a coffee shop. Something that’s a great first job that teaches ’em soft skills, but more importantly teaches them fiscal responsibility,” she said.

Evette emphasized that South Carolina’s technical colleges offer valuable career opportunities and are key to attracting businesses to the state. “So the more we can diversify and bring different industries in from all over the globe, the more we can keep our kids. And as a mom, that’s really important to me to make sure that we have opportunities for all of our children right here,” she said.

Also, Evette is partnering with the Augusta GreenJackets for an MLB event aimed at getting kids excited about sports and encouraging outdoor activities. “They’ll have all the equipment there and they’ll be doing lessons, getting their kids excited about being outside. It’s a great thing,” Lt. Evette added. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 28th at 10 a.m. at SRP Park.

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