What We Do
Looking for a job?
Looking for business services?
We equip job seekers to increase their economic mobility, help businesses grow, rebuild, and thrive equitably, and prepare children and young adults for the world of work. We believe in the power and dignity of work, fight for equity and inclusion and dedicate ourselves building programs that meet people where they are.
Workforce development is much more than finding the next job. It is helping people connect what they know, love and need with what the market demands. Career preparation begins in the classroom and continues throughout life. Life-long learning is essential to keep pace with an ever-changing world.
We offer services, custom programs and unique initiatives that are redefining what workforce development can—and must—be, because everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed.
MISSION
To empower job seekers to meet the current and future workforce needs of employers in San Diego County.
VISION
Every business in our region has access to a skilled workforce and every job seeker has access to meaningful employment.
Values
Collaboration
Engaging in inclusive, respectful relationships among colleagues, customers and community that foster the achievement of shared goals.
Excellence
Driving quality, innovation and measurable outcomes through a customer-centered focus and a high-performance culture.
Stewardship
Strategic, efficient, effective use of resources to meet the evolving needs of our customers and community with the highest levels of integrity.
Inclusion
Taking responsibility for creating a culture where everyone is welcomed, heard, valued and empowered to fully participate and reach their full potential.
Equity
Prioritizing those who have been systemically denied opportunity through policies, priorities, practices and behaviors that result in access to opportunity for ALL colleagues, customers and communities.
Strategic Pillars
Initiatives
For Businesses
High Road Kitchens Reopening restaurants and reemploying workers
Layoff Transition Services Support for businesses and employees before, during and after layoffs
Expanded Subsidized Employment Wage subsides for employers who hire from our Welfare-to-Work participants
On-The-Job-Training (OJT) Wage subsidies for employers who hire career center participants
WARNs Information on layoff notices and notification requirements
For Job Seekers
Career Centers Job search and career development services for all, including training, workshops, hiring events and more
Connect2Careers Partnerships with funders who support innovative youth employment programming
Construction Career Jumpstart Paid training for jobs in energy, construction and utilities, a priority sector
Income Share Agreements Post-secondary education without debt
Reentry Works San Diego Career supports and services for justice-involved individuals
Return to Work – Older Worker Program Work-readiness training and supports for seniors returning to work
School Break Externships Short-term work experiences for San Diego youth during winter and spring break
Southeastern San Diego Live Well Program Job training and placement within County Live Well Centers
Supported Employment/Work Well Connects County behavioral and mental health with workforce systems
TechHire Connects under-represented populations with job training and placement in tech
The Workforce Partnership on Campus Connects the world of work for Vista Unified students