The creation of a workforce development thrust in the RSTC is the foundation for future demand and growth of remote sensing technology in Mississippi and the nation. Developing this workforce in Mississippi should include a "grass roots" foundation throughout the state, links to policy decision makers, and researchers. This area of the RSTC will carefully create a model of development to enhance our current and future workforce in Mississippi and the region.

The SSRC will continue to conduct survey research to provide NASA and potential business partners information about the activity currently developing in the remote sensing field. These activities will be planned and conducted with close integration with each of the focus areas. Partnerships have been formed with researchers in the College of Business and Industry to meet the needs of the burgeoning remote sensing industry in Mississippi.

The MSU-ES provides a link to all areas of Mississippi through the county offices and already has programs in agriculture and forestry. The face-to-face communication with end users that the Extension Service will provide through workshops and short courses will further the interest and use of remote sensing by individuals already in business or creating their business.

The SIG will provide planning assistance and links to policy makers, who in turn can further the interest and demand of remote sensing applications. The SIG will provide a link to such entities as the State Workforce Council, community colleges, county supervisors, municipal elected officials and state agencies (e.g., Departments of Human Services, Education, Rehabilitative Services, and Planning and Government).

The RCU has already initiated instructional activities with the secondary and community college educational system in Mississippi to undertake training in remote sensing and GIS technologies.

The knowledge possessed by the MSU entities comprising the workforce development area and their broad links to other research organizations provides a strong base for the development of Mississippians and others in the remote sensing field. Use of the technology in economic development planning will provide the foundation for future demand of the new technologies created in other areas of the RSTC.

The workforce development thrust area of the RSTC will provide leadership in three areas. The first area includes development of opportunities for students enrolled in multi-disciplinary programs involving remote sensing at MSU. Once created, this model will allow for partnerships with junior colleges and visiting professors to further student research and academic research in the technology field. The second area will focus on the needs of new and existing companies within Mississippi with the ability to reach regional and national needs additionally. Continued monitoring of development and growth in the industry will impact the course of development in the other area of this thrust area. The final area of focus will be on communication and production of training opportunities for students and professionals in the state. The workforce development group will work with staff in other areas of the RSTC to provide current and relevant knowledge through links and partnerships of the RSTC.

The RSTC will provide individuals and organizations with an opportunity to use space-based technology for development of their own information products. These partnerships will be used to conduct joint research, development, and testing programs emphasizing advanced remote sensing.