SHIFT
Shift From
Shift To
Supply-driven sector primarily serving job seeker needs
Dual-customer focus serving both j obs e ek er s ’ AND empl oy er s ’ needs
A. * Build, promote and participate in industry partnerships with individual employers, employer/industry associations and local and regional economic development entities to ensure the workforce development sector is providing relevant employment and training services and ef f e c t i v el yr es pondi ngt oempl oy er s ’ nee ds .A growing body of evidence-based research in the workforce development field underscores the high value to communities of developing industry partnerships to: a) gain an understanding of the specific employment requirements of industries and b) promote meaningful employer engagement that will lead to more responsive training and service programs, high quality job placements and the identification of career pathways for worker advancement. Industry Partnerships and Workforce Intermediaries— Addressing the Mutual Needs of Workers and Employers
Workers Need Improved Skills to Earn Higher Wages
Higher Wages
Employers
Partnerships
Workers
Higher Productivity
Businesses Need Skilled Staff to Improve Their Bottom Line
Illustration adapted from the Philadelphia Job Opportunity Network http://www.joincollaborative.org
Industry partnerships are typically managed by regionally-focused workforce intermediaries that work with employers and conduct labor market research to assess the workforce needs and opportunities of industry businesses; serve as brokers or coordinators to link various partners and funding streams; promote public policies that support sector partnership goals and initiatives; and engage in strategic planning and service design, measurement and evaluation. Connecting entry-level positions to opportunities for advancement in the labor market through development and promotion of career ladders is included in the role of many workforce intermediaries.
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The Jobs and Workforce Initiative (JWFI) established by The Greater Cleveland Growth Association (GCGA), a regional chamber of commerce, established a workforce intermediary to link employers with labor market stakeholders and resources. Research had shown that strong employer connections were key to helping emerging and incumbent workers find jobs with a future. With foundation support, the JWFI launched literacy and job training initiatives in several industry sectors, as well as a work-readiness program adapted from WorkLink in St. Louis. http://www.gcpartnership.com