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IWSI America Partners with the USDA Forest Service to Develop Nationwide Apprenticeship Program

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New Forestry Technician Apprenticeship Initiative to Address Workforce Gaps and Provide Career Pathways for Diverse Communities

WASHINGTON, Dec. 10, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Workforce development organization Institute for Workplace Skills & Innovation America (IWSI) today announced a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service to design and launch a national apprenticeship program.

“We seek to recruit new talent and develop a skilled, dedicated workforce ready to meet the distinct challenges of forest management,” said Dr. Amy Firestone, National Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Leader at the Forest Service.

The collaborative initiative, which will focus on forestry technician roles, is intended to offer innovative career opportunities to underrepresented and marginalized communities, and help ensure the long-term sustainability of forest management across the United States. This apprenticeship program is a key part of the Forest Service’s strategy to meet current and future staffing needs. The partnership with IWSI, which specializes in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs for government organizations, nonprofits and corporations of all sizes, underscores the importance of apprenticeships in providing skilled talent for critical roles, particularly in forestry and conservation.

Addressing Workforce Needs Across the Nation:

The Forest Service’s forestry technician position is vital to the agency’s operations, with roughly 3,000 employees annually filling these roles across the country. However, the position has a turnover rate of approximately 10% each year, creating a consistent need for new recruits.

“Forestry technicians are in high demand, and they play a crucial role within our agency,” said Dr. Amy Firestone, National Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Leader at the Forest Service. “By collaborating with IWSI America to introduce a new apprenticeship program, we seek to recruit new talent and develop a skilled, dedicated workforce ready to meet the distinct challenges of forest management.

A Comprehensive Pathway for Career Growth:

The apprenticeship aims to prepare participants for multifaceted careers in environmental stewardship, public land management, and conservation. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience and the training needed to excel as forestry technicians, with opportunities for advancement within the Forest Service and beyond.

“This program will not only address immediate workforce needs but also create a long-term pathway for individuals interested in a career in forestry,” said Deborah Williamson, Vice President, IWSI America. “We are excited to partner with the Forest Service to design a program that opens doors to individuals from diverse backgrounds and helps them build fulfilling careers while contributing to the sustainability of our nation’s forests.”

The program will also prioritize recruiting participants from underserved communities and those with limited access to employment opportunities. The Forest Service plans to launch pilot programs in multiple states by late 2025, partnering with local organizations to ensure that the program reflects the needs of each community.

Building on a Legacy of Apprenticeship Success:

This new initiative builds on the Forest Service’s longstanding success with apprenticeships, most notably its wildland firefighter apprenticeship program, which has been in operation since 1989. The wildland firefighter program, which hires approximately 300 new apprentices each year, has proven effective in reducing turnover and increasing productivity. The Forest Service believes that the same mentorship and support systems that have been successful in firefighting can be adapted to the forestry technician role, ensuring greater retention and career growth.

“We’ve seen firsthand the impact that apprenticeships can have on employee stability and job satisfaction,” Firestone explained. “By providing clear pathways for advancement and ongoing support, apprenticeships have become a cornerstone of workforce development within the Forest Service.”

A National Model for the Future:

The Forest Service and IWSI are working to have the program developed and registered with the U.S. Department of Labor by Q4 2025, with the goal of employing its first paid apprentices by 2026. By creating this program, the Forest Service and IWSI America are not only addressing critical workforce gaps but also providing new opportunities for individuals to enter careers that contribute to environmental sustainability and public service. The apprenticeship program will help build a diverse and skilled workforce that will be essential to managing and protecting the nation’s forests for generations to come.

About IWSI America:

IWSI America is a workforce development organization that collaborates with enterprising businesses, nonprofits and governments on growing pipelines of talent to meet dynamic workforce needs. Learn more at https://www.iwsiamerica.org/

About the USDA Forest Service:

The USDA Forest Service has for more than 100 years brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in world-class science and technology– and rooted in communities–the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.

Media Contact

Alex Rush, IWSI America, 1 7186643517, arush@rosengrouppr.com, https://www.iwsiamerica.org/ 

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/iwsi-america-partners-with-the-usda-forest-service-to-develop-nationwide-apprenticeship-program-302326329.html

SOURCE IWSI America

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TECNO Unveiled as Title Sponsor of The SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026, Bringing AI Innovation to South Asian Football

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As Official Title Sponsor, TECNO joins hands with SAFF to inspire the next generation through football, innovation, and meaningful fan experiences.

DHAKA, Bangladesh, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TECNO, an AI-driven innovative technology brand, officially announced its title sponsorship of the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026, South Asia’s premier international football tournament, during the tournament’s official launch ceremony in Dhaka.

Scheduled to take place from 4–17 November 2026, the championship will bring together South Asia’s leading national teams, celebrating the region’s passion for football while strengthening friendship, sporting excellence, and regional unity.

The partnership marks another milestone in TECNO’s global football journey while reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to South Asia—one of its most important strategic markets. Guided by its brand spirit, “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO believes football embodies the same values that define the brand: ambition, resilience, innovation, and the courage to pursue every dream.

A New Chapter for South Asian Football

The title sponsorship was officially announced during the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026 Official Launch Press Conference held in Dhaka. The event brought together representatives from the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), TECNO’s global and Bangladesh leadership teams, SAFF Member Associations, national team representatives, members of the diplomatic community, media, and digital creators to celebrate the official launch of the championship and TECNO’s role as its Title Sponsor.

Mr. Purushottam Kattel, General Secretary of SAFF, said: “The SAFF Championship represents the highest stage of football in South Asia, bringing together our Member Associations through competition, friendship, and a shared passion for the game. Today, as we unveil the identity of the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026, we are delighted to welcome TECNO as our Title Sponsor. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to elevating football across the region, and together we look forward to delivering a championship that inspires millions of supporters and creates lasting memories for South Asian football.”

Following the official logo unveiling ceremony, SAFF and TECNO exchanged the Title Sponsorship Agreement, formally launching their collaboration for the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026 and reaffirming their shared commitment to delivering an outstanding football experience for fans across South Asia.

A Shared Vision for Football

Delivering a recorded message during the ceremony, Guo Lei, General Manager of TECNO, reaffirmed the brand’s belief that football is a powerful platform for inspiring young people, connecting communities, and bringing innovation closer to fans.

“South Asia is home to one of the world’s youngest and most passionate football communities. Football has the unique power to bring people together beyond borders and cultures. We are proud to continue TECNO’s football journey through the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026 and look forward to working with SAFF to create unforgettable experiences for millions of football fans across the region.”

Speaking on behalf of TECNO Bangladesh, Rezwanul Hoque, CEO of Ismartu Technology BD Limited, said: “Football has become an important part of TECNO’s global journey because it reflects the values we believe in: passion, resilience, and the courage to dream bigger. Following our partnership with the Bangladesh Football Federation during the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, we are honoured to continue that journey as the Title Sponsor of the SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026. Guided by our brand spirit, ‘Stop At Nothing,’ we look forward to working with SAFF and BFF to create a championship that inspires players, unites communities, and leaves a lasting legacy for football across South Asia.”

Welcoming the championship to Bangladesh, Mr. Fahad Karim, Vice President of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), highlighted Bangladesh’s role as the host nation and officially marked the beginning of the journey toward the championship this November.

“Hosting the SAFF Championship 2026 is a proud moment for Bangladesh and an important milestone for football in our country. Today marks the beginning of our journey toward November, and we look forward to welcoming our fellow South Asian nations to Bangladesh for a championship that celebrates football, friendship, and regional unity. We are delighted to welcome TECNO as the Title Sponsor, and together with SAFF, our Member Associations, and our partners, we look forward to making this a memorable tournament for players, supporters, and the entire South Asian football community.”

TECNO’s Global Football Journey Continues

Football has been at the heart of TECNO’s global brand journey for nearly a decade. Through partnerships with Manchester City Football Club, the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, and the AFC Club Competitions, TECNO has consistently used football as a platform to inspire young people, connect communities, and celebrate the power of sport.

In Bangladesh, TECNO strengthened that commitment through its title sponsorship of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers in partnership with the Bangladesh Football Federation. The overwhelming passion shown by Bangladeshi supporters reaffirmed the country’s vibrant football culture and inspired TECNO to deepen its engagement with the sport.

The SAFF Championship Bangladesh 2026 represents the next chapter in TECNO’s football journey, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to South Asia and its rapidly growing community of young football fans.

Growing Together with Bangladesh

Bangladesh continues to be one of TECNO’s most important strategic markets. Alongside its growing smartphone business, the brand is expanding its AI ecosystem and strengthening long-term investments in retail, innovation, and local partnerships—reflecting its confidence in the country’s digital future and youthful consumer base.

Beyond technology, TECNO remains committed to empowering the next generation by supporting platforms that encourage ambition, creativity, and meaningful human connection.

Football Meets AI Innovation

Throughout the championship, TECNO plans to showcase AI-powered experiences designed to bring fans closer to the game. Powered by Ella, TECNO’s AI assistant, these experiences are intended to demonstrate how intelligent technology can enrich football engagement through interactive match information, smarter fan interactions, and immersive digital experiences.

By combining the emotional power of football with accessible AI innovation, TECNO and SAFF share a common vision of inspiring young people, strengthening communities, and creating richer experiences for football fans across South Asia.

As the countdown to November 2026 begins, TECNO, SAFF, and the Bangladesh Football Federation share a common ambition—to deliver a championship that celebrates the passion of South Asian football while inspiring the next generation through innovation, partnership, and the enduring spirit of “Stop At Nothing.”

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/tecno-unveiled-as-title-sponsor-of-the-saff-championship-bangladesh-2026-bringing-ai-innovation-to-south-asian-football-302834662.html

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Tony Jaa Becomes GAC’s 30-Millionth Customer – GAC Wins Global Trust with “True Craftsmanship”

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GUANGZHOU, China, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On July 16, at the roll-off ceremony for GAC’s 30-millionth vehicle, Feng Xingya, Chairman of GAC Group, handed over the key to the right-hand-drive GAC M8 PHEV (named GN8 overseas) to Tony Jaa. The milestone vehicle is headed straight for overseas markets.

Thai action superstar Tony Jaa’s choice reflects the trust of 30 million customers worldwide. That trust is built not on showmanship, but on GAC’s solid manufacturing “true craftsmanship.”

From Guangzhou to the world, there are no shortcuts – quality speaks for itself. While the industry runs standard “three-high” tests, GAC pushes further with “five-high, one-mountain, one-dust” extreme vehicle trials. New models undergo at least “two winters and one summer” of validation – a minimum 18 months of real-world road testing, covering 12 major categories and over 1,500 sub-items across wind tunnel labs and proving grounds.

For each overseas market, GAC conducts additional adaptive testing for local climate and road conditions – from Middle Eastern desert heat to Southeast Asia’s humidity and heavy rains.

Quality consistency starts at the smart manufacturing front. GAC’s AION Intelligent Eco-Plant is the world’s first “Lighthouse Factory” for new energy vehicles, featuring full-process digital quality monitoring. Automated robots with AI vision systems deliver millisecond response and millimeter-level precision – ensuring uniform quality whether vehicles roll off lines in Guangzhou or overseas plants.

Safety comes first. GAC’s magazine battery has been deployed in 1.5 million vehicles, accumulating over 160 billion kilometers of safe driving. The Starlink Safety Protection System serves nearly 2 million users, preventing 6.28 million potential incidents.

With this commitment to quality and safety, GAC has established a presence in 110 countries and won the trust of 30 million users. Standing at this new milestone, GAC will continue to refine its craftsmanship and deliver worry-free, high-quality mobility experiences to every customer worldwide.

For further information about GAC, please visit: https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social media.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tony-jaa-becomes-gacs-30-millionth-customer–gac-wins-global-trust-with-true-craftsmanship-302834637.html

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Alisira OÜ Publishes Findings on Why Most Marketing Dashboards Miss the Metrics That Matter

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Alisira OÜ has published a set of findings examining why so many marketing dashboards continue to fail to surface the numbers that actually shape decisions. The review looks at the gap between the volume of data modern platforms can collect and the amount that actually gets used when a marketing team sits down to figure out what is supposed to happen next.

TALLINN, Estonia, July 25, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — A Widening Gap Between Data Collection and Decision-Making

What there is often a shortage of, according to Alisira, is a dashboard that actually connects the numbers it displays to a decision someone in the room is genuinely trying to make. That distinction is where most measurement setups tend to fall apart quietly. A dashboard can be full of activity metrics, things like impressions, click volume, and session counts, without ever getting around to answering the question a budget owner is really asking. That question is usually some version of whether a given effort is working and whether more resources should be put behind it. Engagement is easy to display. Revenue contribution by channel takes more work to calculate correctly, particularly once multiple touchpoints and delayed purchases are involved, so it is the piece that tends to be most often left out of the weekly report. However, it is also the piece that leadership actually cares about when the conversation turns serious.

Where Standard Dashboards Fall Short

Alisira’s review identifies several categories of metrics that tend to be underrepresented on standard marketing dashboards, even in cases where the underlying data would in principle be accessible:

Cross-channel attribution, as opposed to last-click or single-platform creditCustomer lifetime value by acquisition source, rather than only first-purchase conversion ratesTime-to-conversion, which is frequently collapsed into a single count with no indication of the lag that is actually involvedAssisted conversions, where a channel contributed to a sale without being the final touchpointCohort-based retention figures, in place of a single blended retention % that has a tendency to hide which groups are actually staying and which are quietly leaving

Part of the difficulty is traceable back to how fragmented most measurement setups tend to be in the first place. Only 32% of marketers globally measure their media spending across both digital and traditional channels, according to Nielsen, which leaves the majority of teams working from a partial view before the dashboard-design questions have even come into play. Alisira’s findings suggest this is less a tooling problem than it is a structural one. What most organizations lack, more often than not, is a single point in the workflow where channel-level data is reconciled before it reaches a decision-maker in a usable form.

Alisira OÜ frames these findings as part of a broader shift away from dashboards built to display everything a platform can track, toward dashboards built around a smaller, more deliberate set of numbers tied to what a team actually decides to do next. The company plans to continue publishing analysis on measurement practices and marketing reporting in the months ahead.

Media Contact

Norman Drew, Alisira OÜ, 372 53687131, info@alisira.net, https://www.alisira.net/

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/alisira-ou-publishes-findings-on-why-most-marketing-dashboards-miss-the-metrics-that-matter-302833819.html

SOURCE Alisira OÜ

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