Last week, Speaker of the House Philip Gunn appointed Representative Timmy Ladner from Poplarville as vice-chair of the Workforce Development Committee.

Ladner, who was elected to his first term in 2011, said he was honored he was appointed as vice-chair by Gunn and realizes not many “freshman representatives” are given that title.

In a press release, Gunn said, “As a local business owner, Rep. Ladner values a strong workforce. I know he will work closely with the chairman, committee members and the community college system to help research and development programs that will continue to attract and train citizens to be productive employees.”

Ladner is a self-employed business owner whose real estate company serves all of Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River and Stone counties.

“I look forward to working with all the state community colleges on workforce development,” Ladner said.

He is also on the agriculture, forestry, gaming, investigate state offices, Judiciary B, Judiciary En Banc, marine resources and youth and family affairs committees.

“Rep. Ladner has proven to be a great addition to the Legislature and to the coastal delegation. He hit the ground running and immediately demonstrated his ability to understand the issues and make wise decisions. This appointment demonstrates that the speaker recognizes his abilities and is a testimony to his efforts on behalf of the constituents he represents,” said Representative Mark Formby.