It seems like almost everyone has an opinion on workforce development lately, especially as it relates to closing the skills gap. However, we all can agree that workforce development is a critical component of economic development, and the state of Virginia is emerging as a leader in doing just that.
There are several workforce development Virginia initiatives that are creating education and training programs, job placement services, apprenticeship opportunities, and partnerships between employers, government agencies, and educational institutions.
What exactly do these successful workforce development programs share in common?
Industry-focused
Workforce development programs should focus on industries that are in high demand and provide a pathway to a career with high potential for growth and advancement are more likely to be successful.
The Maritime Trades Magnet (MTM) in the Hampton Roads region is a perfect example of an initiative focused on local industry. This is a high school-focused (grades 10 and 11) program that offers online advanced manufacturing instruction that aligns with maritime trades job opportunities in the region.
The program was proposed and is being developed by the Hampton Roads Maritime Industrial Base Ecosystem and the Virginia Digital Ship Program of Old Dominion University. It’s the culmination of a partnership between CTE leads, instructors, and regional maritime industry to develop a scalable, affordable learning resource which supplements current CTE and non-CTE competency instruction and enhances state K-12 workforce training and education policies.
Employer-driven
Successful workforce development programs involve employers in the design and implementation of training programs to ensure that the skills being taught are relevant to the needs of the industry.
For example, FastForward is a program in Virginia that provides funding for workforce training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certifications in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades.
Their workforce training programs are based on the needs of local employers, which means their students are in demand for skilled jobs when they graduate. Some of their programs even have guaranteed interview agreements with local businesses, which shows how much their initiative is driven by employers in the region, not just industry trends.
Hands-on training
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At their core, workforce development programs should provide hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities are more effective at preparing workers for real-world job situations.
Registered Apprenticeships is Virginia’s Registered Apprenticeship program. It’s a partnership between employers, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations. In Virginia, the Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) maintains approximately 15,000 apprentices serving in the private and public sectors, and in the military settings. Approximately 2,200 employers participate as sponsors of Registered Apprenticeship programs.
Let’s face it: it’s on-the-job hands-on training that truly offers the experiential learning needed for more effective preparation for real-world job situations, especially for skilled trades and professions.
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Partnerships
Workforce development programs should always incorporate industry / education partnerships, such as those with community colleges, vocational schools, and universities to help provide access to education and training opportunities. For example, Virginia Tech is working with the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative and CACI to collaborate on cybersecurity workforce development, and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) has partnered with industry to support workforce development for careers most affected by the health workforce shortage.
GO Virginia is a statewide initiative focused on regional collaboration and economic development by bringing together business leaders, government officials, and educators to identify and address workforce development needs in their communities.
In fact, just last month several organizations were awarded funding from the state to support the growth of strategic industry sectors, develop talent to meet industry needs and foster entrepreneurial activity. Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) and Patrick and Henry Community College (P&HCC) are two examples of schools that are using their funds to expand their GO TEC Pathways, ultimately increasing dual enrollment opportunities in local high growth industries (mechatronics and welding respectively) in partnership with their local K-12 school districts. This is a prime example of how community colleges and K-12 districts can work together to credential and certify students for the future workforce.
The Community College Workforce Alliance is another example of a partnership between Virginia’s community colleges and local employers to provide customized workforce training programs in a variety of industries. This is the workforce development division of Brightpoint and Reynolds Community Colleges, which has become known as the the go-to resource \for businesses and economic development organizations seeking workforce solutions and the first stop for job seekers across central Virginia looking for a runway to a career or advancement.
Support services
Beyond training and partnerships, the next piece of the puzzle is job placement. Successful workforce development programs often provide support services such as career counseling, job placement assistance, and mentorship can help workers overcome barriers to employment and achieve success in their careers.
For example, Virginia Career Works is a statewide network of employment, training, and education programs that help job seekers find employment and employers find skilled workers. Virginia Career Works connects job seekers with training and education programs, career counseling, and job opportunities.
Ultimately, the goal of workforce development is to help workers gain the skills and knowledge they need to find and keep good jobs, while also helping employers meet their workforce needs. This can lead to economic growth and increased productivity, as well as improved quality of life for workers and their families.
All of these initiatives are helping to build a strong and skilled workforce in Virginia. By providing training and education opportunities, connecting job seekers with employers, and addressing the workforce needs of local communities, the state of Virginia is positioning itself for continued economic growth and success.
