Cobb County Advisory Roundtable with Dr. Tiffany Barney, Director of the Cobb Innovation & Technology Academy
DISCUSSION OVERVIEW: Building Georgia's Future Workforce
Building Georgia's future workforce is a proactive strategy by corporate firms and partners to address the need for skilled professionals in Georgia. By partnering with high schools and technical colleges, many corporate partners support students through sponsorships and hands-on training programs, introducing them to careers in construction, design, and engineering. Recognizing that traditional education often lacks practical industry skills, firms help create curriculums that blend academic knowledge with real-world experiences. This approach equips students with the skills necessary to maintain and build Georgia's infrastructure, ensuring a steady pipeline of talented professionals ready to meet industry demands. Through these initiatives, led by Dr. barney and her team of educators, young individuals gain valuable skills and insights, preparing them for successful careers in construction management, architectural design, MEP engineering, civil engineering, and more.
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Dr. Tiffany BarneyDirector
Cobb Innovation & Technology Academy
Dr. Tiffany Barney is currently the Director of the Cobb Innovation & Technology Academy, where she leads the development of the next generation of workforce development through hands-on training and strategic alliances with corporate partners. Prior to her appointment in Cobb County, she served as the CTAE Program Specialist for healthcare science, law and public safety, and cosmetology for the Georgia Department of Education. With extensive experience at various levels of public education, Dr. Barney has been a teacher, instructional coach, and adjunct professor. She transitioned to education after a successful career in athletic training, working with high school, collegiate, and professional athletes.
Dr. Barney holds seven degrees and earned a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia in 2017. She is passionate about providing avenues for students to become career-ready, leveraging her expertise to bridge education and industry. Her efforts have been recognized nationally, as she was named the National Administrator of the Year for College and Career Academies, and she has received numerous accolades including Georgia Trend's 40 Under 40, Cobb Chamber's Next Generation Award, LiveSafe Resources Woman of Achievement, and UGA's 40 Under 40.
