During a speech to community college administrators in October, President Barack Obama recognized two-year colleges as the "unsung heroes" that provide opportunities to those who otherwise would be unable to enter higher education. Community colleges, he said, play an important role in reviving the economy and putting Americans back to work. The New Jersey Council of Community Colleges (NJCCC) is using a creative new approach to meet that mission and get ahead of the curve. Through the College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development, a partnership between the state and the community college system, the NJCCC brings the collective resources of its 19 colleges to the aid of local businesses. While other community colleges may offer continuing education courses, the Consortium provides customized employee training programs to businesses in the state. Established via executive order from Gov. James E. McGreevey in 2003 with funding from the state's unemployment insurance fund, the Consortium began as a one-stop training program for area businesses. The Consortium has attracted attention outside of the state as well. According to NJCCC President Lawrence A. Nespoli, other states have inquired about possibly using the Consortium as a model to boost their own industries.