Overview
The Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board has established special board committees to address specific issues, challenges, or initiatives within the realm of workforce development. These committees consist of board members who possess relevant expertise or interest in the identified area.
Workforce Training & Education
Goal of The Committee: To focus on identifying and addressing training and education needs within the community by exploring partnerships with educational institutions, develop training programs, and advocate for policies that support lifelong learning.
Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify current and future workforce training and education needs within the region.
Forge strong partnerships with local colleges, universities, vocational schools, and other educational institutions to develop and deliver relevant training programs.
Develop and implement skill development programs that equip individuals with the competencies needed for in-demand occupations.
Facilitate access to workforce training grants and scholarships to support individuals in pursuing education and training opportunities.
Establish clear career pathways that outline the progression of skills and credentials needed to advance in various occupations.
Conduct outreach and awareness campaigns to promote the importance of workforce training and education.
Business Engagement
Goal of The Committee: To work on fostering relationships with local businesses and industries to assist in identifying workforce needs, promoting job opportunities, and facilitating partnerships between employers and job seekers.
Actively reach out to businesses and industries within the region to understand their workforce needs, challenges, and priorities.
Establish industry sector partnerships to facilitate collaboration among businesses, educational institutions, workforce development agencies, and other stakeholders within specific sectors.
Conduct workforce needs assessments to identify current and future skill requirements, labor shortages, and emerging trends within key industries.
Develop talent pipeline initiatives that connect businesses with skilled job seekers and training programs.
Collaborate with businesses to design and deliver customized training programs tailored to their specific needs.
Provide recruitment and hiring support services to businesses, including job posting assistance, candidate screening, and job fairs.
Assist businesses in implementing strategies to retain and develop their existing workforce.
Educate businesses about workforce development incentives, tax credits, and funding opportunities available to support workforce training and hiring initiatives.
Youth & Young Adult Programs
Goal of The Committee: To concentrate on initiatives that are aimed at supporting youth and young adults in their transition to the workforce, while overseeing programs such as internships, apprenticeships, career exploration, and skills development.
Provide career exploration opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and job shadowing experiences, to help youth and young adults explore different career paths and identify their interests and strengths.
Develop skill development programs that equip youth and young adults with the essential skills needed for employment, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills.
Facilitate work-based learning opportunities such as internships, apprenticeships, and part-time jobs to provide youth and young adults with hands-on experience in real-world work environments.
Offer education and training support services, including assistance with college applications, financial aid, and enrollment in vocational training programs, to help youth and young adults further their education and skill development.
Provide job placement assistance and support services to help youth and young adults secure employment opportunities that align with their skills, interests, and career goals.
Foster entrepreneurship and innovation among youth and young adults by offering programs and resources that support business startup and development, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding.
Provide transition support services to help youth and young adults successfully transition from school to the workforce or higher education, including assistance with resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Collaborate with schools, community organizations, employers, and other stakeholders to leverage resources and support the holistic development of youth and young adults.
Offer leadership development programs and opportunities for youth and young adults to build leadership skills, self-confidence, and civic engagement capabilities.
Ensure that programs and services are accessible and inclusive to youth and young adults from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities, and actively promote equity and inclusion in all aspects of workforce development.
Equity & Inclusion
Goal of The Committee: To focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workforce by addressing barriers to employment faced by marginalized groups, advocate for inclusive hiring practices, and support initiatives that promote workforce diversity.
Conduct equity assessments to identify barriers and disparities within the workforce, including disparities related to race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, and other factors.
Advocate for the creation of inclusive work environments where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported.
Support the establishment of employee resource groups (ERGs) or affinity groups within organizations to provide a supportive space for employees from underrepresented backgrounds.
Ensure that training and development opportunities are accessible and equitable for all employees, regardless of background or identity.
Promote supplier diversity initiatives that prioritize contracting opportunities for businesses owned by individuals from underrepresented groups.
Collaborate with community organizations, advocacy groups, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to advance equity and inclusion in the workforce.