News & Stories
How Project Next is helping students thrive, industries grow and communities prosper
April 8, 2025
Project Next is dedicated to helping students receive personalized career coaching, hands-on experiences, and direct industry connections by establishing Future Centers within high schools. Their services empower students to make informed decisions about their next steps—whether that involves attending college, pursuing technical training, entering apprenticeships, joining the military or going directly into the workforce.
San Diego Workforce Partnership Powers ‘Fair Chance’ Month Using Community to Open Doors for Justice-Involved Workers
April 1, 2025
In honor of Fair Chance Month, also known as Second Chance Month—a nationwide initiative aimed at ensuring that individuals returning from incarceration have meaningful opportunities to rebuild their lives—the San Diego Workforce Partnership (SDWP) is highlighting the urgent need to expand employment opportunities for justice-involved individuals.
Iris’s Journey from Administration to Substance Use Counseling
March 14, 2025
After 16 years in administration, Iris from El Cajon unexpectedly found a passion for SUD counseling. Discovering an apprenticeship program through SDWP, she jumped at the chance to enhance her education. Now registered with CADTP and preparing for her state exam, Iris is on the path to becoming a certified addiction counselor.
Staff profile: Meet Kimberly Pitts
February 28, 2025
Kimberly is a program specialist who leads our Older Adult Workforce program. In this piece, she shares her proudest professional moment, what she enjoys most about workforce development and how she spends her time off.
San Diego Workforce Partnership announces new leadership of its governing boards
February 24, 2025
The San Diego Workforce Partnership (SDWP) has announced key leadership appointments to its two governing boards of directors, strengthening its commitment to workforce development and economic mobility in the San Diego region.
San Diego Workforce Partnership, Gaylord Hotels, and Southwestern College launch March hiring blitz to fill 800 jobs at new Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista
February 12, 2025
The San Diego Workforce Partnership will co-host a series of free, day-long career fairs in March with Gaylord Hotels and Southwestern College to provide immediate employment opportunities for job seekers in South County.
Transforming lives through peer support training
February 7, 2025
Samantha worked a series of minimum-wage jobs, including her role as a shift lead at Denny’s. For nearly two decades, she found herself trapped in a cycle of low-paying jobs with little opportunity for advancement. After being released from custody, Samantha was on probation, and her criminal record frequently hindered her ability to find meaningful employ.
Navigating San Diego’s economic future: Insights from the 41st Annual Economic Roundtable
January 31, 2025
The 41st Annual Economic Roundtable brought together leading economists and policy experts to discuss pressing issues, from affordability and workforce development to trade and emerging technologies.
From caregiver to flood survivor: Lorena’s journey
January 10, 2025
After dedicating 11 years to care for her parents, Lorena was ready to reenter the workforce. But 10 days after her mother passed away, the January 2024 floods hit San Diego. To add to the chaos, Lorena also faced issues with unemployment. That’s when Lorena connected with the SDWP and its flood relief initiative. Now, Lorena is working part-time as a caregiver again.
CA Workforce Development Expert to be confirmed as New President and CEO of San Diego Workforce Partnership
November 14, 2024
The SDWP CEO search process is being led by a Joint Personnel Committee (“JPC”) consisting of representatives from both the SDWP and the Policy Board, which includes members of the San Diego City Council and the County Board of Supervisors.