The new SDWP Workforce Development Board (WDB) held its first meeting on February 18. Board members were officially sworn in and discussed the strategic overview of SDWP and its programs.
WDB member Dr. Sunita Cooke, President of MiraCosta Community College District, gave a special presentation regarding the recommendations of the California Community Colleges Task Force on Workforce, Job Creation, and a Strong Economy, which are based on input from a wide variety of sources reflecting agreement from both internal and external stakeholders of the community college system. SDWP worked closely with the Task Force last year to co-host the San Diego town hall, which gathered community feedback on how to meet regional workforce needs. The recommendations enhance career technical education and workforce training to meet the demands of the economy and the labor market, thus benefitting individuals, communities, and the entire state.
The addition of the WDB to SDWP’s governance structure was announced in November 2015 in response to the passage of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which calls for smaller, more strategic local boards.
The WDB has 27 members who represent business, organized labor, education, economic development, community organizations and other entities. It provides direction on optimal ways to provide job training opportunities for job seekers that meet the needs of regional employers. The WDB also serves as the 501(c)(3) board.
The next meeting will be held April 14, 8 a.m.