The Cenla Work Ready Network has received the 2026 Work Ready Economic Development Catalyst designation in recognition of its efforts to support economic growth by developing a skilled workforce.
The award was presented during the 2026 ACT Summit in Nashville. The Network was one of five organizations recognized for innovative work through ACT’s new WorkReady Organization designations.
The Work Ready Economic Development Catalyst designation is a nationally recognized marker of workforce leadership and reflects the Network’s commitment to connecting individuals with skills and work opportunities through the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC).
In presenting the award, ACT recognized the Cenla Work Ready Network for building a sustained work-ready ecosystem, engaging more than 325 employers, deploying job profiling with regional manufacturers, integrating WorkKeys NCRC into K-12 accountability, and using WorkKeys data in economic development proposals and site selection competitiveness.
Established in 2011, the Cenla Work Ready Network was created to connect education with workforce development efforts and align them with regional economic needs in Central Louisiana.
The initiative, led by The Orchard Foundation and Louisiana Central, is built on partnerships among employers, industry, economic development organizations and education partners throughout Central Louisiana.
Marjorie Taylor, executive director of The Orchard Foundation, accepted the award on behalf of the Network.