BLUFFTON, S.C. () — Business leaders, city officials and county officials all came together today for the Technical College of the Lowcountry’s annual “State of the College.”

The program discussed the critical role of workforce development, and the power of economic partnerships in shaping the region’s future.

Novant Health was announced as this year’s partnership.

President Richard Gough of TCL said healthcare workers are very important in the Lowcountry. The partnership will both mutually benefit TCL students and the health company.

“It’s probably one or two or three of the top employers and things that are most important to our community,” said Gough. “This relationship with Novant, which is really blooming, will allow us eventually to provide more health care workers, nurses, surgical techs, red techs, and all the various disciplines. We’re very excited about it.”

The address was held at the Culinary Institute of the South at TCL.