MCBRIDE RESIGNS AS PIC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mary McBride surprised co-workers with notification this week that she would resign as executive director of the Private Industry Council. McBride's departure will become effective Aug. 26.

"I was surprised by this, but Mary saw this as an opportunity to become employed by the private sector after working in the public sector since June of 1985," said Ron Swift, who will become interim executive director of PIC until a permanent replacement can be named.

McBride will become branch supervisor of Manpower Incorporated of Sikeston.

Swift said McBride left a noticeable imprint through unwavering dedication and hard work. "Mary was responsible for computerizing our office and just being innovative in a number of programs," said Swift. "She will be missed around here, but we understand her need to move on into another area."

"This was a little bit of a surprise, but you can't fault someone for wanting to do something different after doing a good job in the public sector," said Cathy Simpkins, chairman of the administrative committee that will name a replacement for McBride. Simpkins is city administrator at East Prairie.

Simpkins said the committee will advertise the position of PIC executive director in national and regional publications. "It will probably be at least 45 days before we're able to sit down and start looking at applicants on an individual basis," said Simpkins.

PIC relies on funds from the United States Department of Labor to provide job training services for citizens who qualify.

McBride couldn't be reached for comment.