The enactment of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, replaced by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in 2014, created a system of workforce development boards in every state and local area in the U.S. and its territories. Since their inception, these Workforce Development Boards have played a vital role in shaping the future of federal, state and local economies and workforces.
What is a Workforce Development Board?
There are 49 local workforce development boards in California. These local boards, each with different names and structures, work together with the state and their local elected officials to oversee the delivery of workforce services and provide valuable economic insights to enhance their region.
As one of these boards, the San Diego Workforce Partnership understands the vital role we play in our region. We continuously strive to achieve our mission to empower job seekers to meet the current and future workforce needs of employers in San Diego County.
Recognizing the strides we have made to honor this commitment, the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB), which oversees California’s workforce development system, awarded the Workforce Partnership the prestigious title of a High-Performance Board. This distinction serves as a testament to our devotion to providing early intervention activities and support services that better equip job seekers and businesses for success, resulting in a local economy rich with thriving businesses and a highly-trained talent pool.
Achieving a High-Performing Board Status
Local workforce development boards must meet five criteria to be designated as a high performing board:
- Meet or exceed the appropriate employment rate level and median earnings indicators
- Create an updated regional and local economic development plan that accounts for changes in the labor market and economic conditions
- Spend at least 30% of the combined total of their adult and dislocated worker WIOA allocated funds on training services, directly benefiting job seekers, upskillers and employers
- Spend at least 75% of their WIOA youth allocation funds on youth workforce investment activities for out of school youth
- Establish a business service plan that integrates local business involvement with workforce initiatives
The Workforce Partnership achieves this by embracing innovation and collaboration, with the support of our partners, stakeholders and the community. Together, we are creating a workforce ecosystem that thrives on adaptability, inclusivity and continuous growth.
Our inclusive programs and policies speak volumes about our dedication to a holistic approach to workforce development. By championing these pillars like inclusive business growth, job quality, outcome-focused funding, population-specific outcomes, and diversity, equity and inclusion, we lead the way in shaping a workforce that meets the needs of our dynamic economy.
Our Vision for the Future of Workforce Development
Embracing the future requires understanding and responding to the needs of emerging industries and rapidly-evolving technologies. To continue to create innovative solutions capable of transforming the lives of San Diegans, we aim to not only meet the current needs of the workforce, but also to anticipate future ones.
We can achieve by building strategic partnerships with regional economic development entities, employers and community based organizations, allowing us to create a stronger network that thrives on collaboration. This enables us to gain profound insights into the unique needs of businesses across various sectors, paving the way for tailored solutions that benefit employers and employees alike.
To learn how to become a partner, contact Khaleda Atta at khaledaatta@workforce.org.