5/5/2009 - WIA & CC Collaboration Meeting, Day 2
WIA & CC Collaboration Meeting, Day 2.
A couple of points addressed over the last two days: There is a focus here on “skills development.” The organizations here help people assess their skill levels, and then work to give them the skills to be successful in their next step, be that increased education, finding work, promotions, or some combination thereof. There seem to be immediate opportunities for workforce development funding under ARRA, particularly if groups are willing to use innovative approaches to workforce development. There are many opportunities for pursuing “green” jobs, like renewable energy, in rural Oregon – but the term “green” has negative connotations to many rural citizens. There needs to be a different way to market these opportunities.
There is the general feeling progress had been made. WIA service providers are commending the community colleges as the best place for advanced skills training and the best path to successful job placement. Community college representatives note that WIA provides quick response to work-seekers and can provide fast, limited-duration basic skills training in a way community colleges seldom can. Those present are talking about new and better ways to cross-promote information. As an example, community college representatives present will try to make sure they let students know about opportunities for scholarship possibilities through WIA.
-Monty