SPECIAL REPORT The Western ’ Workforce Development Initiative The Chairman’s Initiative of June 2018

PAGE 1 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE Dear Friends and Colleagues:

The job market has changed dramatically. Subsequent workshops were hosted by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, Oklahoma Governor Mary In 1973 more than 70% of the job force had no more than Fallin and Washington Governor . Those events a high school degree or less, but by 2016 that number had attracted the top minds in workforce development – fallen to just 39%. The evolution is further highlighted by such as Suzan and Eric LeVine, Chauncy Lennon and Josh the fact that since the recession, nearly all 11.6 million Davies – to talk about apprenticeships, public-private jobs created nationally have been filled by workers partnerships, and how to anticipate changes in the with a college degree, or at least some post-secondary workplace. education. In all, just 80,000 of those jobs went to someone with a high school degree or less. The workshops were followed by a series of webinars that delved deeper into issues of special interest that arose Young people aren’t the only ones being left behind. during those regional events. The topics included youth Many adults in the workforce are underemployed and lack apprenticeships, prioritizing college and career readiness, the skills or credentials that would allow them to secure a rural workforce challenges, and how to encourage lifelong higher-skill, higher-paying job. learning.

The challenge extends to employers. Even though the To ensure that as many people as possible would benefit low unemployment rates we have been experiencing from this collected wisdom, the Western Governors’ across the West are good news, it means a smaller pool Association livestreamed each workshop and then made of eligible workers from which businesses may search for them available on their website (www.westgov.org) the talent they need. alongside the webinars and other workforce development resources. Those job candidates often don’t have the skills employers need, creating a “skills gap” that has led to Which brings us to this report. In addition to detailing worker shortages for industries such as manufacturing, the many issues that have resulted in the skills gap, the cybersecurity and healthcare. CEOs surveyed in 2017 report of the Western Governors’ Workforce Development verified that these talent gaps were causing problems for Initiative presents a series of findings that offer suggested business and industry. actions for Governors to take and examples of how various western states are already exercising leadership As Chair of the Western Governors’ Association (WGA), I in addressing these challenges. launched the Western Governors’ Workforce Development Initiative to bridge the skills gap between workers and It’s an insightful collection of ideas that can help shrink employers in the West. The work accomplished during the skills gap, but it will require action for them to the past year by Western Governors has focused on how have meaningful impact. Given the work of the Western to create enhanced career opportunities for students, Governors so far on this Initiative, and the impressive graduates and displaced workers to help build a more collaboration I’ve witnessed during my involvement with vibrant regional economy. WGA, I’m confident that significant progress will be made.

The work of the Initiative started with four regional workshops hosted by Western Governors. I kicked off Sincerely, the series in Sioux Falls, S.D., with a series of incisive roundtable discussions by experts and a keynote by Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. The two-day event concluded with a visit to Lake Area Technical Institute, the Dennis Daugaard 2017 winner of the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community Governor of South Dakota College Excellence.

PAGE 2 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE Dear Friend of the West,

In launching the Western Governors’ Workforce success only to the extent it prepares and empowers Development Initiative – the Chair’s Initiative of South Governors to make positive contributions to workforce Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard – WGA has taken on development in the West. Given the Governors’ recent an issue that is sprawling, multi-faceted and critical to track record – as well as their collective commitment to the continued growth and prosperity of the Western education and healthy economies – the prospects for a United States. Igniting a dynamic conversation about successful outcome could not be brighter. the future of work, education and the technology economy, WGA conducted workshops hosted by This effort would not be possible without the Governors throughout the West: Governor Daugaard in intellectual and financial contributions of the many Sioux Falls; Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin in Oklahoma Initiative sponsors identified in this report. WGA thanks City; Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper in Denver; these supporters and looks forward to our continued and Washington Governor Jay Inslee in Seattle. WGA is partnership in effecting meaningful and positive change indebted to these leaders for their participation and in workforce development and training systems. important contributions to the workforce conversation. Possibly the most extraordinary aspect of the Initiative WGA also hosted a webinar series, conducted surveys to date has been Chairman Daugaard’s personal and deployed other tools to collect and synthesize the investment in the project. Traveling across the country region’s best thinking about the development of robust to participate in Initiative workshops and related workforce ecosystems. events, he has exercised outstanding leadership and The measure and quality of information that has been maintained laser-like focus. A dedicated student of generated and exchanged through these mechanisms education and workforce issues, he is committed to have been remarkable. We have drilled deeply into better alignment of educational models with industrial any number of discrete workforce development issues, opportunity. For years to come, in continuing the work focusing on the skills gap in the West; career pathways; he has initiated, WGA hopes to further cement Chairman and future workforce scenarios for which we need to Daugaard’s legacy as a preeminent state leader in prepare now. workforce development issues.

To be sure, there would be considerable value in these efforts if all WGA accomplished were information Respectfully, exchange, identification of best practices, and an elevated awareness of the challenges associated with western workforce development. But Western Governors seek to leverage all this work to a much Jim Ogsbury higher purpose. The Initiative will ultimately be a WGA Executive Director

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Changes in states’ economies and labor markets and the transformative impacts of technology have combined to make workforce development a top priority for Western Governors. While low unemployment rates across the West represent a positive economic development, a smaller pool of available workers results in the inability of businesses to find enough qualified workers. CEOs are raising the alarm that “talent gaps” are causing issues in their business or industry. The largest gap is in “middle skills” jobs – those that require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree.

South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard, as Chairman of the Western Governors’ Association, launched the Western Governors’ Workforce Development Initiative in July of 2017 in response to these growing challenges. The work of the Chairman’s Initiative has leveraged the region’s best thinking to help bridge the gap between prospective workers and employers in the West and create enhanced career opportunities for students, graduates and displaced workers.

The Workforce Development Initiative examined these issues in several ways, starting with a slate of workshops hosted by Western Governors Dennis Daugaard in South Dakota, John Hickenlooper in Colorado, Mary Fallin in Oklahoma and Jay Inslee in Washington. The workshops gathered policymakers, educators, business leaders, and community organizations to discuss Governor Dennis Daugaard kicked off the Workforce Development Initiative the challenges they face, promising workshops in Sioux Falls, S.D. solutions, and how Governors across the West are improving education and Initiative and recommends suggested Value All Pathways: Better workforce development. steps that Governors might take towards communication about the value of the following goals: postsecondary credentials other WGA conducted a series of webinars than four-year degrees, and ensuring designed to delve deeper into issues Integrate State Efforts: Governors are that state policy maximizes these that arose during the workshops. uniquely situated to leverage their educational opportunities, will help Webinar topics included: expansion of influence and visibility to highlight Governors erase stigmas associated youth apprenticeship programs; state workforce development challenges with career and technical education prioritization of college and career and develop statewide strategies to and boost the numbers of students and readiness; rural workforce development; address those challenges. Governors adult workers who benefit from these and means for strengthening lifelong can exercise powerful leadership in career pathways. learning. The webinars and the coordinating the work of state agencies livestreams of each workshop are involved in education, training, labor Connect Education to Careers: Students available on the WGA website as a and workforce services, as well as among need better information, guidance and resource. external partners, including educational opportunities for career exploration institutions, businesses and community to make informed decisions about This report presents the findings of the organizations. their postsecondary education and

PAGE 4 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, left, discussed the challenge of developing a strong workforce at a time of low unemployment. Washington Governor Jay Inslee highlighted the nobility of all work and the critical importance of innovation, while Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin addressed the challenge of closing the gap between the skills prospective employees now have and the skills employers will need.

career plans. Governors can ensure that educators, students and parents can find the information they need about jobs available in their state, including the average earnings and what education or credential is required. They can also implement policies to increase the career readiness of high school graduates.

Create Pathways to In-Demand Careers: Governors can provide leadership in the development of career pathway programs, especially by helping to leverage the insights of industry leaders and key employers to design coursework and curricula more aligned to workforce opportunity. They can promote work- based learning such as apprenticeships which often lead to an industry- recognized credential and employment.

Upgrade Skills: Many adults in the Workforce Development Initiative workshops, like this one in Oklahoma City, gathered experts from multiple sectors to discuss challenges and solutions. workforce are underemployed or stuck in low-skill, low-wage jobs. Governors can take steps to make training and and manufacturing. There also is a available workforce to the needs of rural education more accessible to working severe shortage of skilled workers in communities. adults to empower their transition to fields such as healthcare, information higher skilled, better paying jobs. technology and education. Workforce The first year of theWestern Governors’ development efforts are needed Workforce Development Initiative has Address Rural Challenges: The skills to help rural westerners adapt to provided considerable insight into the gap is particularly acute in the rural changing labor market demands. challenges facing the region as well as West where major economic shifts and Expanding broadband access in rural possible solutions. This year-one report automation have displaced workers in communities is a critical foundational describes that work in greater detail and traditional sectors such as agriculture step to help align the skills of the will help guide ongoing WGA efforts.

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 5 BACKGROUND

With low unemployment across the West, it has become difficult for businesses to find all the talent they need to thrive. The huge wave of Baby Boomer retirements exacerbates this problem because there are not enough young workers to replace them. A mismatch between worker skills and employer needs is causing serious labor shortages across the region.

There are especially severe shortages of skilled workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, cybersecurity and healthcare. In a 2017 survey, over half of responding CEOs report that talent gaps are causing issues in their business or industry.1 The largest gap is in “middle skills” jobs, which require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree.2 school graduates.6 Of those, however, a healthcare and education and there are The Western Governors’ Workforce staggering 40% will not graduate.7 Worse not enough people with the skills to fill Development Initiative has highlighted still, only 36% of college graduates say them. how Governors are addressing this issue their education prepares them for a to strengthen their economies and job8 and over half of recent graduates Automation and artificial intelligence expand opportunities for westerners. are unemployed or underemployed. (AI) promise to affect massive shifts Governors are improving their talent Clearly, more options are needed for in the kinds of employment that will pipelines to better prepare students for postsecondary education that can better be in demand in the future. Many jobs the workforce and expanding access to prepare graduates for good jobs. requiring repetitive tasks will disappear education and training to help working while new occupations will develop. It adults and displaced workers secure Moreover, many adults in the workforce is expected that a third of U.S. workers better employment. are underemployed. They may lack the will need to learn new skills or move into skills or credentials that would enable a new occupation by 2030 due to the States are aligning education to them to move into higher skill, higher impact of automation and AI.10 workforce opportunity to help students wage jobs. The middle skills gap cannot successfully transition from high school be filled with young people alone, Increasingly, employers identify skills to further education, job training or especially in the many western states such as critical thinking, creativity and work. While possession of a high school with aging populations. Unemployed and interpersonal communication as keys diploma was once enough to qualify one underemployed adults need to be able to to success in the 21st century workforce. for a good job, 8 out of 10 jobs today quickly gain skills for in-demand jobs. Most of all, workers will need to be require a postsecondary credential, such adaptable and keep their skills and as a certificate, professional license Unemployment remains a challenge in 3 training up to date to keep pace with or college degree. At the same time, rural areas where the economy has not students are struggling to succeed in rebounded from the 2008 recession.9 technology. high school and beyond. Only one-third Historically, the primary employers in of American high schoolers are actively rural areas have been manufacturing, Western Governors are focused on engaged in, and enthusiastic about, farming and mining. Technological implementing lasting changes in school.4 Another three million young change has resulted in a shift in labor education and workforce systems to adults, 16-24 years of age, are neither market demands. Rural manufacturing create opportunities for westerners and working nor attending school.5 has declined while technological support growing economies. As each improvements in mining and farming state implements innovative solutions Most students who do graduate from have depressed their contribution to to solve its unique challenges, there high school proceed directly to a four- rural employment. Increasingly, jobs in is immense opportunity for Western year degree — almost 70% of 2016 high rural communities are in fields such as Governors to learn from one another.

PAGE 6 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE PAGE 7 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE FINDINGS

The Western Governors’ Workforce Development Initiative brought together stakeholders from across the region to share their experiences and ideas about the most pressing issues facing the West, with a focus on how Governors can best leverage their leadership to remove impediments to workforce development in their states.

Sectors represented in workshops and webinars included: education (from K-12 to technical college to higher education); federal, state and local government; state labor, education and economic development agencies; and a variety of employers and industry groups. The findings of the Initiative are organized into priority areas of potential state activity and influence. Each priority area includes suggested actions that Governors might take, and examples of how various western states are already exercising leadership in addressing these challenges.

I. Integrate State Efforts and opportunities, so state-specific Trade. The report explores the likes visions are essential to the development of the evolving labor market and The most immediate role for Governors of appropriate priorities. postsecondary education outcomes may be to coordinate existing and identifies “Top Jobs” in high- Anecdotal evidence often drives workforce development efforts and demand, high-growth occupations. conversations about the skills gap so systems within their states. Workforce establishing a data-driven baseline development activities fall within the The Governor’s Office of Workforce of labor supply and demand in the purview of several state agencies and Innovation for a New Nevada state is an important step in creating offices including education, training, partnered with the Governor’s Office an integrated workforce development workforce development, and economic of Economic Development and the system. Stakeholders need a shared development. If these agencies are not Nevada Department of Employment, understanding of the issues in order collaborating, they may be duplicating Training and Rehabilitation to issue to work collaboratively on solutions. efforts or perpetuating ineffective the 2017 In-Demand Occupations Additionally, public support for programs. There are also a variety and Insights Report. The report is a workforce development policies and of external partners — including resource to educators, nonprofits, programs is contingent on successful educational institutions, businesses, government entities and workforce communication of where skills gaps are and community organizations — that boards to inform decisions and drive occurring and their impact on economic may be working to solve workforce alignment of education and training growth. development challenges in disparate programs for the state’s labor needs. It also helps students and adults ways. Various state agencies collect relevant make decisions about education and data at the state and local levels, Coordination across public and private training. including through departments of sectors benefits all stakeholders in education and labor, and offices of workforce development by creating South Dakota publishes a Hot Careers economic development. Governors are efficiencies and encouraging page on the state’s website. Careers, positioned to drive the coordination of collaboration. Governors have the and job openings in those careers, those agencies and ensure that data is authority and convening power to are eligible for being listed on the accessible to stakeholders in a user- bring these stakeholders together page if they meet criteria based on friendly format. and integrate disparate efforts into high-wage, high-demand jobs in South Dakota. a comprehensive state workforce Colorado publishes an annual Talent development system. Pipeline Report, prepared by the Colorado Workforce Development Align State Resources Establish Goals Council (CWDC) in partnership with To develop a statewide vision and Governors can establish a clear vision the state’s Departments of Higher implement an integrated workforce to connect talent development to their Education, Education and Labor, development system, it is incumbent state’s workforce needs and set goals as well as the Department of Labor upon states to inventory existing for stakeholder collaboration. Each and Employment, Office of Economic programs and resources and consider western state has different challenges Development and International whether they can be deployed more

PAGE 8 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE WEBINAR: Strategies to Expand Youth Apprenticeship

The Swiss model of apprenticeship and stigmatization. If we can’t do better at examples of successful work-based helping people understand the power learning programs for youth in the U.S. of apprenticeships and the great jobs were the focus of this discussion. available for someone coming through an apprenticeship pathway, almost Moderator: Brent Parton, Deputy nothing that business or government Director, Center on Education and Skills can do will deliver the success we want.” at New America. Panelists included: Diane Jones Diane Jones, Senior Policy Advisor to the Secretary, U.S. Department of “If we are going to grow apprenticeship Labor; Christopher Nesmith, Career and models within the United States, we Technical Education Director, West Valley have to set them up in a way that it School District – Yakima, Washington; and industry sectors. Against that opens doors and it doesn’t close doors.” Mark Tapy, Apprenticeship Program backdrop, we can’t meaningfully expand Christopher Nesmith Manager, Pinnacol Assurance. apprenticeship in the United States without trying to connect and integrate “We want to maintain institutional Comments included: it into our formal education systems, knowledge and have our young students and importantly, expand it into new learn from our leaders who may not be “Most of our apprenticeship programs industry sectors.” Brent Parton here down the road. We felt like youth remain to this day concentrated apprenticeship was the right approach within a limited range of occupations “We must address the issue of for our business.” Mark Tapy

effectively. State agencies can work the competencies and skills the talent Oklahoma established Key Economic to align data systems to allow sharing development system must produce. Networks (KENs) to coordinate of information seamlessly between workforce development efforts by agencies and to increase transparency Partnerships may already exist between region. Each of the state’s seven and effectiveness of programs. employers and educational institutions, KENs are led by a business leader. Programs should be measured by real or between industry groups and The network connects companies outcomes for completing participants. workforce development organizations. from high-demand industries with Governors can evaluate and realign The challenge is to increase the scale education, workforce development levels of state funding and staffing and impact of such partnerships. This and community organizations to build across agencies and influence federal challenge can be met by making business partnerships and align education with funding streams to support the most participation efficient, cost-effective regional workforce needs. effective programs and eliminate those and rewarding. Governors can take a not achieving the desired outcomes. leadership role by creating a state-level South Dakota established the SD Wins entity through which businesses can Program. Launched by the Governor, Governors can also refine organizational interact with the relevant state actors it features six regional summits that structures to elevate workforce in the workforce development system. include leaders from businesses, development priorities or encourage This entity can also serve to foster education, state and local government. coordination across agencies. partnerships, integrate them into the system, and scale those that already Montana created a position, jointly exist to a statewide level. II. Value All Pathways funded by the Department of Labor and Industry and the Montana The Colorado Workforce Development A key cause of the middle skills University System, to focus specifically Council currently supports 22 sector gap is the stigma around, or lack of on bridging industry and higher partnerships across the state’s 14 information about, pathways that alter education. regions. The partnerships gather from immediate enrollment in four-year business leaders from the same college following high school. These Industry Engagement industry and in a shared labor market pathways include technical degrees and region. They work with education, certificates, associate degrees, registered Industry leadership is critical to the workforce development, economic apprenticeships, and industry-recognized alignment of talent development development and community certifications. For many years, the systems with workforce needs. organizations on workforce and emphasis in education has been on four- Employers must help define the other competitiveness needs in their year college to the detriment of these needs in their industry and identify industry. alternatives.

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 9 Students, parents, teachers and guidance counselors may be unfamiliar with or have biases against careers in the skilled trades, considering them a step below careers that may be achieved with a college degree. As a result, career and technical education (CTE), which traditionally focuses on middle skills careers, has become viewed as a dead-end path, despite the ongoing and projected growth of job openings in these sectors.

Communicate to the Public Governors have the prominence and stature to help shift public perception about what it takes to succeed in the economy. Through policy initiatives and the full array of communications Governor Daugaard took advantage of his time at the workshops to share ideas with tools at their disposal, Governors can attendees. raise the public profile of CTE and and state policies, states determine South Dakota amended its highlight middle skills jobs in their the metrics used to measure school constitution to remove technical states. Changing the messaging around performance and accountability colleges from the control of the success will help change the mindset of systems and these metrics guide how Board of Regents and created a co- students and parents. teachers and school administrators equal board for them. In addition, The Build Dakota Scholarship Fund prioritize their time and resources. 12 school districts were awarded is encouraging students to pursue States have historically used metrics a combined $8.5 million to assist good technical careers in South such as test scores and graduation in developing and strengthening Dakota. The full scholarship is for rates, which are indicators of college career and technical education students who enroll in a technical readiness. Many states are now adding programs. These funds helped institute program determined to school performance measures that middle schools and high schools be a high-need workforce area in reflect students’ successful transition partner with other school districts, South Dakota and agree to work to more types of postsecondary postsecondary institutions, and in the state in that field for at least education and training. Accounting industry to create more career three years after graduation. South for all pathways helps school districts pathways. Dakota uses funding provided in the and teachers to encourage students to Help Industry Improve Messaging program to market the scholarship more purposefully pursue all types of to students and families. South in-demand postsecondary credentials. A recurring theme of the Initiative is Dakota’s four technical colleges have States can also include jobs outcomes that perceptions of work in the skilled seen an increase in applications for as key metrics for postsecondary trades have become outdated. Jobs the programs highlighted by the education and training programs and once characterized by repetitive tasks scholarship as a result. provide the public with information and physically demanding conditions, on jobs and earnings outcomes by frequently referred to as “dirty, dark and Ensure State Policies Value All Pathways program and institution. dangerous,” have been transformed by Many states have policies that technology. For example, manufacturing encourage the public education system Arizona includes college and jobs now often require the management to focus on producing college graduates. career readiness in its school of automated machines, which requires This has the effect of pulling resources accountability plan and ensures troubleshooting skills and technical away from other types of pathways. A that schools can receive credit knowledge. Workplaces have evolved key leadership role for Governors is for both readiness indicators. as well, offering perks and benefits identifying systemic barriers to valuing Schools are awarded points to attract a younger workforce. The all pathways and, if necessary, realigning based on the students that skilled trades also offer good wages and state policies, resources and incentives complete a work-based learning opportunities for growth. to create a new paradigm for student experience (i.e. an internship), and school success. earn an industry-recognized Industry participants recognized credential, or score well on ACT that they have not done a good job Under the Every Student Succeeds Act WorkKeys assessments. marketing themselves to young people

PAGE 10 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE WORKSHOP: Sioux Falls, South Dakota (Aug. 3-4, 2017)

Keynotes: Dennis Daugaard, Governor of South Dakota; Alexander Acosta, U.S. Secretary of Labor

South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard launched the first workshop of the Western Governors’ Workforce Development Initiative by illuminating the changing job market and encouraging skills training.

Gov. Daugaard highlighted change in the jobs market by noting that in 1973, 72% of the work force had a high school degree or less. By 2016, however, just 39% of the work force had a high school degree or less. And since the recession, nearly all 11.6 million jobs created nationally were filled by workers with a college degree. In all, just 80,000 of those jobs went to someone with a high job vacancies nationally (1.25 million in Michael Cartney, President of Lake school degree or less. the West) and many of those employers Area Technical Institute, took part can’t find qualified applicants. Secretary in a roundtable at the South Dakota “That illustrates why skills training is workshop and then led attendees on a essential if you are one of those workers Acosta also noted the Administration’s tour at the award-winning institute the without a degree and you want to be respect for Governors as the leaders of next day. of value to an employer,” said Gov. their states and recognition that “each Daugaard. state is different, and that what works needs, industry leadership in career for a large East Coast state may not work training, and how to attract and retain Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta in the West.” talent. The meeting concluded with highlighted positive news about the The Sioux Falls workshop also included a field trip to Watertown, S.D., and western economy — the regional roundtable discussions by experts the Lake Area Technical Institute, average unemployment rate is below 4% on topics such as how to align state which earned the 2017 Aspen Prize for — but added there are nearly 6 million resources to identify and meet training Community College Excellence.

or the parents, classroom educators and The NoCo Manufacturing for western states. Many students school counselors who influence their Partnership in Colorado connects struggle to transition from education career path. Governors can encourage students to tours of manufacturers to the workforce. Initiative participants employers in their states to invest time and provides presentations, attribute this largely to the current and resources in attracting students internships and scholarship disconnect between secondary and jobseekers. States can provide a opportunities. education and careers that makes it framework and resources for industry difficult for students to choose and members to come together to develop Lake Area Technical Institute in plan the pathway that is right for communications and outreach plans South Dakota publishes Playbooks them. Students need to understand through regional or statewide industry for communities and industry on their options and have meaningful partnerships. States can also provide steps to help develop a pipeline for experiences to help them discern which a platform to connect secondary and critical needs workforce. jobs they can excel at and experience postsecondary educators and counselors satisfaction. to business and industry leaders to III. Connect Education enhance their understanding of the Participants recognized that career current labor market and how technology to Careers awareness, exploration and guidance all has transformed both the skills in Preparing students to succeed need to be enhanced to help students demand and workplaces themselves. after high school is a key challenge succeed after high school.

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 11 WEBINAR: Moving Toward Career Readiness Goals

States must prioritize college and career Construction; Kathryn Zekus, Senior readiness. Webinar panelists highlighted Associate, Federal Policy, Advance CTE. how this dual approach better serves students and employers with examples Comments included: that included an employer utilizing the “The key was to get in the schools and ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness help raise the bar on the curriculum and Certificate and industry-recognized credentialing that our industry finds credentials in the hiring process. valuable.” Nathan Kubicek Moderator: Jennifer Zinth, Director “In Colorado, we manage and support of High School and STEM, Education career and technical education Commission of the States. Panelists for middle, high school, and post- included: Dawn Burns, Chief Strategy secondary. We try to connect all three Officer – Career Readiness, New Skills levels and develop programs of study as to advance that vision.” Kathryn Zekus for Youth, Nevada Department of a continuum.” Sarah Heath Education; Sarah Heath, State CTE “We’re trying to shift the mindset. In the Director, Colorado Career and Technical “We like to think about states having a past, the message kids got was just get Education; Nathan Kubicek, Talent larger career readiness vision and using through high school and that’s enough. Development Director, Crossland federal policy as a tool in their toolbox We’re trying to change that.” Dawn Burns

Provide Accurate, User-Friendly Data South Dakota’s “My Life” portal States and school districts are starting As states work to coordinate education allows students and parents to to adopt innovative strategies to combat and workforce data, it is important access tools for planning education this resource constraint. They also are to ensure that this information is and career plans. It also helps equipping teachers with the skills and accessible in a meaningful way to develop a personal learning knowledge to provide meaningful career various audiences. Educators, students plan and obtain dual credit, as advice to students they already see and parents need information about well as details on scholarship daily. This is driving a shift toward more which jobs are available in their local opportunities. systemic, school-wide career development community or state, average earnings, throughout a student’s education. Launch My Career is a web tool for projected growth rates, and the required students to learn which jobs in their South Dakota recently launched level of education or type of credential. state are in demand and identify a pilot program to pool resources Additionally, they need clear information majors, degrees or certificate in four school districts to provide on which educational and training programs that can prepare them more career counseling. Using programs are most effectively preparing for those jobs. The U.S. Chamber state and federal funding, 11 career people for specific jobs and careers of Commerce tool is available in a counselors were hired for the four as indicated by outcomes for program few states nationwide, including districts, with one person serving graduates. Colorado. as the program coordinator. Governors can assist in solving this States can also implement policies problem by ensuring that all state- Provide Guidance and Encourage Career that engage students, parents and gathered information is available in one Planning teachers more fully in career planning. location. Many states have developed With the wide variety of career and This engagement focuses students on tools to help students explore and education/training options available, career how to use what they are learning in compare their options. advising is essential to guide students the real world, making education more through their decision-making process. Oklahoma’s Top 100 Critical meaningful. Many states require students States often do not have the resources to Occupation List emphasizes the to complete some form of career plan provide dedicated career advisors in all state’s “desire to meet labor before graduating from high school. high schools, and high school guidance demands so that businesses These requirements can drive meaningful counselors are often overwhelmed by large and entrepreneurs can grow and conversations about a student’s future. prosper.” school populations and the wide variety of social and academic issues impacting Oklahoma developed the students. Individual Career and Academic

PAGE 12 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE Plan (ICAP) to drive a strategic shift in how schools think about and incorporate career development activities throughout K-12 education to help students and their families become more informed consumers of education and training. The ICAP is designed to be an ongoing, student-driven process that helps students create a vision of their future and prepare a personal plan for achieving their goals through high school and beyond. Oklahoma is working to help school districts implement the ICAP and move toward a systematic, school-wide approach to career development.

Support Career and Technical Education Governors Daugaard and Hickenlooper showcased WGA’s signature bipartisanship (CTE) when they both addressed the Denver workshop. Initiative participants highlighted their CTE offerings to identify gaps charter schools that encourage high the value of CTE for increasing career and areas for improvement and school students to complete industry readiness among high school students. then develop an action plan. The credential programs, internships, CTE provides students opportunities state’s Department of Education residencies, construction pre- to explore careers and participate in guides the process and ensures apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs of study designed around collaboration with postsecondary programs, even Advanced Placement specific professions. education and regional workforce courses. Districts and charter Governors can work to ensure that CTE or economic development leaders. schools are eligible to receive up to programs are supported and aligned to $1,000 for each student completing a state workforce needs. CTE should be Governors should also ensure that qualified program. part of the statewide vision for workforce CTE programs provide high-quality development with resources focused career exploration opportunities and South Dakota established the on good jobs, as defined by the state. prepare students for postsecondary Workforce Education Fund, up to States receive federal funding under success. States possess a variety of $1.5 million of which is designated the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical policy levers to drive this goal, such to provide grants for career and Education Act to support CTE programs as statewide requirements for high technical education programs in and distribute funds to school districts, school graduation, school performance secondary schools. The grants community or technical colleges, and measures, and incentive structures for enable school districts to make other local recipients. Governors can use schools and students. transformative change in career and their leverage over this funding to ensure technical education programs. that CTE programs support the statewide Nevada created a College and vision. Governors may also reserve up Career Ready (CCR) Diploma to to 10 percent of this funding to support incentivize high school students IV. Create Pathways to areas of significant need or to catalyze to earn a college-ready or career- In-Demand Careers innovative programs. ready endorsement on their diploma. The state’s Department To close the skills gap, states are working of Education worked with school with employers to build career pathways Nebraska developed reVISION to districts, industry and other that lead high school students directly to align career education programs partners to develop the CCR in-demand jobs benefitting both students with workforce needs and economic Diploma framework, which allows and local businesses. Because developing development priorities, strengthen CTE or work-based learning new career pathways programs requires career readiness, and fortify career courses to fulfill a diploma coordination between the public education guidance initiatives for all high requirement. system and major employers, Governors school students, among other goals. are well positioned to drive expansion of Through a year-long process, school Colorado’s Career Success Pilot such programs. districts or regions comprised of Program provides financial multiple districts review and analyze incentives for school districts and Although career pathway programs in

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 13 WORKSHOP: Denver, Colorado (Sept. 18-19, 2017)

Keynotes: John Hickenlooper, ; Dennis Daugaard, Governor of South Dakota; Josh Davies, The Center for Work Ethic Development CEO; and Suzan LeVine, former U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, and Eric LeVine, CEO of CellarTracker

The second workshop of the Chairman’s Initiative, hosted by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, focused on innovation and effective partnerships with industry. Gov. Hickenlooper’s opening remarks highlighted the state’s low unemployment rate of 2.3% but added the flip side to that success is a “labor pool so tight, businesses are finding it hard to find the talent that they need.”

WGA Chair and South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard also addressed the workshop and noted that employers in his state face a similar challenge finding qualified candidates and need to start thinking differently about preparing people to join the workforce.

“In South Dakota we are working to European models, saying “a Swiss The lively dual presentation by Suzi and redefine how to achieve career success. apprenticeship doesn’t define you for Eric LeVine during the Denver workshop You don’t necessarily need to go to life, but it is designed to prepare you for highlighted their findings about European apprenticeship models. four-year college. That’s a good path, life.” but other paths can lead to careers with great success. With so many options out Josh Davies delivered dynamic remarks there, we need to make sure students on how employment has dramatically The Denver workshop also included understand them all.” changed through history, highlighted roundtable discussions by experts the impact of automation and the rising on topics such as aligning education Making the business case for youth role of competency-based education and training with industry defined apprenticeships in the U.S., Suzi and and training, and the importance of competencies, and industry-led Eric LeVine shared their findings from partnering with industry. workforce development initiatives.

western states vary, they generally require career pathway programs. Governors and information technology. participating students to complete: can assemble employers within an Students complete related coursework and curricula that are industry, identify their common needs coursework at both their high developed with insights from industry and provide resources to develop career school and a technical college and partners; a work experience such as a pathways that prepare students to meet complete a summer internship summer internship; and an evaluation those needs. States can also facilitate to earn a certificate as well as resulting in an industry-recognized statewide coordination between schools a guaranteed interview with an credential. These programs include a and industry. employer partner. commitment from employer partners to Talent Ready Utah provides hire from the pool of students meeting Create or Support Intermediaries to resources and coordination the established criteria. Scale Work-Based Learning for businesses to engage with Facilitate Industry-Education education. The program worked Work-based learning is a crucial Collaboration with industry partners to establish component of successful career pathway Support from the state is critical to career pathways in aerospace, programs because it provides students help expand and scale employer-driven diesel tech, medical innovations with meaningful career exploration

PAGE 14 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE WEBINAR: Rural Workforce Development Challenges

Expanding meaningful training and Comments included: education opportunities for high- wage, in-demand careers is a challenge “We want to work with our state and for rural communities. This webinar local partners to identify gaps. We want highlighted the efforts of states and to help facilitate those partnerships and employers to provide high quality career understand where there are missing and technical education (CTE) and links, so we can maximize and leverage workforce services for rural job-seekers the resources we have at the federal to access in-demand careers and level.” Kristi Boswell strengthen the local talent pipeline. “Four out of five ‘low-education’ counties Moderator: Lauren DeNinno, Policy are rural, and these counties are much more likely to experience high rates of Advisor, Western Governors’ Association. distance learning networks where poverty. Technology allows students Panelists included: Kristi Boswell, Senior schools share instruction between each to engage with workplace experts in Advisor, U.S. Department of Agriculture; other.” Richard Katt Austin Estes, Senior Policy Associate, every industry, no matter their zip code.” Advance CTE; Richard Katt, State Austin Estes “We’ve heard from industry that people Director, Nebraska Career Education; need the ability to learn for a lifetime, “Our objective is to say, ‘your zip code Randy Noel, Chairman of the Board, not just a four-year period. They need should not determine the quality or National Association of Home Builders; to learn over a lifetime and do it in a diversity opportunities that you have in Geniphyr Ponce-Pore, Director, CSU compressed way that works for people education.’ We’re really doing it through Regional Hub Network. with busy lives.” Geniphyr Ponce-Pore

opportunities while helping them develop work experience and college credits, Washington is expanding youth the skills they need to succeed in any giving them the option to continue apprenticeships through the workplace. Initiative participants stressed working or pursue postsecondary Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship that these opportunities are essential to education. Apprenticeships have Committee (AJAC). The state prepare students for the workforce and historically been common in the skilled funded the creation of AJAC in help them determine their career interests. trades, but other sectors such as 2008 to help the industry prepare insurance and financial services are now for impending retirements and Some western states have invested in developing youth apprenticeships to increasing production demand. youth apprenticeships, which is one ensure their access to talent. AJAC has developed registered type of work-based learning. Youth apprenticeships for high school apprenticeships can be federally registered Youth apprenticeships can be students to help capture the apprenticeships, in which case they must intimidating for employers to knowledge of senior workers and adhere to federal requirements. Some establish. Employers may be wary create avenues for young people to states have developed their own models of hiring high school students and join the industry. for youth apprenticeship along with state unsure of applicable federal and state For youth apprenticeship programs guidelines and frameworks to ensure requirements and regulations. Smaller to become more commonplace in the program quality and safety. In either employers, who can often benefit case, youth apprenticeships differ from West, states need to take the lead in the most, may lack the resources establishing models or systems that internships, part-time jobs, or other work to develop a youth apprenticeship experiences by offering students a multi- include quality controls and standards program. States can make this process at the statewide scale. This will make it year commitment, wages, mentorship, and easier for businesses by supporting rigorous related instruction. easier for more schools, businesses, and intermediaries that work with industry students to participate. Youth apprenticeships typically begin in partners to determine industry- CareerWise Colorado was created junior or senior year of high school when wide needs, design the instructional elements of apprenticeship, and as a nonprofit intermediary to participating students begin splitting time bring youth apprenticeship to coordinate with school administrators. between classes and work and continue Colorado at scale. The public-private States can create or support past high school graduation. Classes can partnership seeks to create over include college courses. At the end of industry-specific organizations 20,000 apprenticeships in high- the apprenticeship, apprentices have a dedicated to creating and supporting demand, high-pay occupations nationally recognized industry credential, apprenticeships. across multiple business sectors

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 15 WEBINAR: Innovative Policy for Lifelong Learning

Short-term education and training Analyst, National Skills Coalition; Lindel programs for working adults provide Fields, Superintendent & CEO, Tri County skills and credentials that lead to careers Tech. in high-paying fields such as advanced manufacturing and health care. This Comments included: webinar discussed best practices in post- “The issue of short-term workforce secondary education and highlighted development is probably the most how adult education programs could important item for community colleges be strengthened and expanded through in the reauthorization of the Higher pending federal policies and legislation, Education Act.” David Baime including reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. “We tried the old way of having programs five days a week in the Moderator: Steve Voytek, Federal evenings, and that just isn’t realistic for other federal investments in this area. Government Relations Manager, ACT. busy adults. Flex programs open up a As we look towards modernizing this Panelists included: David Baime, whole new world.” Lindel Fields legislation and others, it is important Senior Vice President, Government that future policy recognize that there Relations and Policy Analysis, American “The largest investment in America’s are multiple pathways, including a four- Association of Community Colleges; workforce today remains the Higher year degree, to success in today’s labor Katie Brown, Senior Federal Policy Education Act: legislation that dwarfs all market.” Steve Voytek

by 2027. CareerWise works with have the unintended consequence on those core skills. The Skillful school districts and businesses of restricting the pool of qualified State Playbook details how state to create career competencies candidates. Skills-based hiring, which leaders can create a skills-based and ensures that apprentice focuses on the exact competencies a labor market. Other states in the work and school schedules are job candidate needs, makes it easier for network include Montana, North optimized. It also recruits students jobseekers to apply their current skills in Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and acts as an intermediary new careers or identify which skills they Utah, and Washington. between the education system need to acquire. It also helps businesses and industry to align goals and better target qualified candidates for job The South Dakota Department of ensure a streamlined experience. openings in a tight labor market. Labor and Regulation revamped Additionally, CareerWise works its SDWORKS database of jobs to with the hiring businesses to States can facilitate a skill-based labor enable decisions to be made with train supervisors and apprentice- market by helping both businesses real-time, skill-based supply and coaches, and with apprentices to and jobseekers focus on competencies. demand information. prepare them for a professional States can work with employers and work environment. industry groups to identify essential Through its Governor’s Office of competencies in their fields and provide Economic Development, South V. Upgrade Skills tools or training to individual employers Dakota provides direct workforce Governors and Initiative participants to write skills-based job postings. development training grants that noted that helping underemployed lets businesses undertake training workers in low-skill, low-wage jobs to In 2016, Colorado became the first programs that align workers’ skills upgrade their skills is essential to fill the state to partner with Skillful to drive with the skills and competencies middle skills gap and increase economic a shift toward training, educating required for the position. Each year, stability. Working adults face several and hiring based on skills. The approximately 450 workers receive barriers to pursuing training or education, online network of tools and on- training through this program. including access and affordability. the-ground resources connects job seekers to fast growing, high-paying Encourage a Skills-Based Labor Market Expand Registered Apprenticeships jobs. It also can direct them to In job postings, businesses often list the educators who can get them Working adults may not have the time requirements, such as a bachelor’s training for new skills that advance and money necessary to upgrade their degree, that are not actually needed to their careers. Skillful also helps skills in pursuit of a better career. do the job but serve as a rough proxy employers create skills-based job for other attributes. This practice can descriptions and hire workers based Registered apprenticeships mitigate

PAGE 16 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE WORKSHOP: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Oct. 16-17, 2017)

Keynotes: Mary Fallin, ; Dennis Daugaard, Governor of South Dakota; Chauncy Lennon, Managing Director and Head of Workforce Initiatives, Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase

The Chairman’s Initiative workshop hosted by Governor Mary Fallin examined how states can better utilize data to identify critical skills gaps and align resources to provide jobseekers with increased career awareness.

“We think it’s important to start talking to our high school students at a younger age about some of the career opportunities that are available to them,” Governor Fallin said in opening remarks.

WGA Chair and South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard also spoke on the theme, saying: “Every governor is aware of and struggles with the workforce gap, where the skills of those who are searching for work don’t align with the skills employers need to fill their “Every governor is aware of and struggles with the workforce gap,” said Governor vacancies.” Daugaard during a press conference with Governor Fallin. Gov. Fallin also discussed the workforce efforts that she has launched as “Many of the workforce programs we students to learn to work by being in the governor, including “Oklahoma Works.” have in place today were designed workplace.” That initiative connects businesses, decades ago for an economy that looked state agencies and educators to discuss very different,” said Chauncy Lennon The Oklahoma City workshop also included what skills employers need and how of JP Morgan Chase. “To build new roundtables on topics such as creating educational leaders can better align career pathways, we need to work with opportunities for students to learn at degree programs to better achieve that employers and educators to identify work, and how states and employers employee pipeline. targeted skills and opportunities for address the skills and credential gaps.

this problem by paying apprentices for the With funding from Washington program often makes more sense work they do while they are in training. state, the Washington Technology than a degree program. Postsecondary While traditionally utilized in the trades, new Industry Association set about certificates, most of which take a programs are giving people the opportunity creating an apprenticeship year or less to complete, are typically to start new careers in healthcare, IT and program to solve the region’s offered through community or technical insurance as well. Apprenticeships also shortage of tech workers. Apprenti colleges and, depending on the help jobseekers enter a new field without helps people — especially women, program, can increase wages as much prior work experience, thus removing a veterans and minorities — get as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. common stumbling block. For businesses, started in a tech industry career. Although certificate programs can be apprenticeships offer a quicker solution to Apprenti recruits and intensively efficient tools to help adult workers labor shortages than waiting for education to trains candidates who are upgrade their skills, they must be paid produce talent. then placed in tech company for out of pocket. Federal financial aid apprenticeships. Apprenti is now can only be applied to programs that Many states provide assistance to expanding its model nationwide. meet federal credit-hour requirements. businesses seeking to establish a registered apprenticeship. Many states also support Increase Access to Postsecondary intermediaries to serve entire industry Credentials for Adults As demand for various postsecondary sectors, reducing transaction costs for For working adults who need a credentials grows, federal financial aid participating employers. postsecondary credential, a certificate requirements should be modernized

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 17 WORKSHOP: Seattle, Washington (Nov. 1-2, 2017) Keynotes: Jay Inslee, Governor of Washington; Ryan Harkins, Director of State Affairs and Public Policy, Microsoft

Governor Jay Inslee hosted the Initiative workshop, which highlighted apprenticeships and opportunities in the healthcare, advanced manufacturing and IT sectors.

Gov. Inslee touted Career Connect Washington, an initiative aimed at helping more students pursue good- paying jobs after high school through career-ready education such as apprenticeships and technical training, during his opening remarks. “To this day, I believe that all work is noble work and we need to welcome people from all paths of the workforce,” he said.

One highlight of the workshop was hearing from Trevor Mackey, a high school student and apprentice with High school student Trevor Mackey illuminated and entertained attendees at the Cub Crafters, who spoke about his Seattle workshop by relating his apprentice experience. experience. “The people who work at the company have been there for White Space technology, which provides a real opportunity gap because much 10 to 15 years or more, so they’re cost-effective internet access in rural of the world is racing ahead with really knowledgeable. A lot of what communities. the opportunities that technology I’ve learned has been through side provides,” said Harkins. conversations with those people.” “Today, 34 million Americans don’t have access to broadband. Perhaps 10 The Seattle workshop also included Ryan Harkins of Microsoft delivered years ago not being able to access the roundtables on topics such as career- a keynote about reducing the rural internet at home would have been an connected learning and public-private broadband gap through the use of TV inconvenience. But today, it has created partnerships for job training.

to help underemployed adults pursue degrees remain the goal for many The Complete Washington Initiative nondegree credentials. Congress should working adults. While Western Governors seeks to reengage in higher expand the Pell Grant Program to are focused on increasing the level of education the 300,000 adults in include high-quality, short-term training educational attainment in their states Washington with some college programs that lead to industry-recognized there are 35 million American adults experience but no degree with credentials. with some college credits but no degree. the goal of improving economic Individuals who do not complete mobility and workforce readiness States can also help working adults make college are twice as likely to become for this population. The initiative this crucial investment. As part of the unemployed as individuals with a addresses barriers to college re- state’s vision for workforce development, bachelor’s degree. Median earnings also entry (including cost, geographic Governors can help determine which increase with higher levels of educational limitations, and family or career nondegree credentials have the best attainment. obligations) by expanding resources return on investment and are priorities for As a result, many states are encouraging available to re-entering students. employers in their states. adults to complete their degrees to fill Complete Washington is partnering the skills gap and create a more resilient with Western Governors University, Increase Educational Attainment workforce. States can provide support to which offers technology-enabled, While all types of postsecondary adults that are interested in returning to competency-based education that is credentials are in demand, bachelor’s college. designed for adult learners.

PAGE 18 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE VI. Rural Challenges infrastructure and laying miles of fiber optic cable to rural communities. New Rural regions of the West have slower TV White Space technology, which uses rates of economic growth and higher spectrum in the television band to provide rates of unemployment than metropolitan wireless internet access, could potentially areas. Fewer rural adults hold associate serve some rural western communities for degrees or higher than their urban a much lower cost. Pilot projects of the counterparts, and that gap in college technology are underway in several western completion rates continues to grow. states and Western Governors support the Western states are facing severe shortages use of innovative technologies that have of workers in rural areas in sectors such as the potential to connect rural communities healthcare and education. at affordable costs.

Rural communities face a variety of Explore New Models obstacles that make it difficult for states for Rural Employment to provide them with adequate education and workforce services. For example, there Connecting more rural communities are fewer employers with whom schools to high-speed internet presents new can partner to provide career exploration opportunities, because technology or work-based learning opportunities. The enables more jobs to be performed nearest postsecondary institution may remotely wherever talent is available. be too far for working adults to pursue Naria Santa Lucia, the Executive Director Some companies are locating these jobs postsecondary credentials. of Washington State Opportunity outside of cities to take advantage of the Scholarship, moderated the Seattle lower cost of living. While participants Western states are implementing roundtable, “A Model for Public-Private Partnership.” in the Initiative noted this shift and innovative solutions to these problems. cited examples in the tech industry, For example, students in South Dakota’s more concrete information is needed to rural schools can take dual-credit classes speed internet, resulting in lost online understand the type and quantity of jobs online. Nebraska developed virtual learning opportunities and inadequate that are moving to rural areas. career tours that highlight the state’s key development of the digital skills needed industries. Many states are deploying in today’s workforce. Governors, through their offices of technology and online tools to connect economic development, can explore rural areas to resources in urban areas. Expansion of broadband access is critical the viability of attracting jobs with to providing rural western communities flexible location requirements to rural Expand Rural Broadband Access with the training and education communities. Governors can also engage One of the biggest obstacles to rural opportunities required to develop a with employers to understand what skills workforce development is the lack of robust workforce. The disparity between and competencies lend themselves to broadband access. More than 20 percent rural and urban broadband access is remote work and build these into the state of schools in rural areas lack high- mainly due to the high cost of building vision for rural workforce development.

ENDNOTES

1 A database of accountability measures by state is available from Achieve, Inc. at https://states.achieve.org/essa-tracker 2 National Skills Coalition, Putting Pell Grants to Work for Working Students, March 2018. 3 https://census.gov/data/tables/2017/demo/education-attainment/cps-detailed-tables.html 4 New America Education Policy. Report: Beyond the Skills Gap. www.newamerica.org 5 https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/rural-economy-population/employment-education/rural-education/ 6 Urban Institute. https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/three-million-americans-are-disconnected-higher-education 7 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Interagency Task Force on Rural Economic Prosperity Report, January 2018. 8 Arizona, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington have TV white spaces pilot projects. 9 U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service, Rural America At A Glance 2017 Edition, November 2017. 10 McKinsey Global Institute, Jobs Lost, Jobs Gained: Workforce Transitions in a Time of Automation, December 2017.

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 19 The Western Governors’ Association would like to thank the following for their support of the Workforce Development Initiative

INITIATIVE SPONSORSINITIATIVE SPONSORS INITIATIVE SPONSORS

INITIATIVE SPONSORS INITIATIVE SPONSORS INITIATIVE SPONSORS

WESTERN GOVERNORS’ WESTERN GOVERNORS’ WORKSHOP SIGNATURE SPONSORS WORKFORCEWORKFORCEWORKSHOP SIGNATURE SPONSORS WESTERNWESTERNDEVELOPMENT GOVERNORS’ GOVERNORS’ INITIATIVE WESTERN GOVERNORS’DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE WORKSHOPWORKSHOP SIGNATURE SIGNATURE SIGNATURE SPONSORSSPONSORS SPONSORS WORKSHOP SIGNATURE SPONSORS WORKFORCEWORKFORCE WORKSHOP SUPPORTERSWORKSHOP SUPPORTERS WORKFORCEDEVELOPMENTColoradoDEVELOPMENTColorado Workshop INITIATIVE INITIATIVEWorkshop DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVESept. 18-19,Sept. 2017 18-19, 2017 WORKSHOP SUPPORTERS PAGE 20 • 2018 WORKFORCEWORKSHOP DEVELOPMENTI INITIATIVE SUPPORTERSI Denver, ColoradoDenver, ColoradoWORKSHOP SUPPORTERS Colorado Workshop Follow the conversation Followon Twitter the (@westgov)conversation at on #wgaworks Twitter (@westgov) at #wgaworks ColoradoSept. Workshop18-19, 2017 Colorado Workshop Sept. 18-19, 2017 I Denver, Colorado I Sept. 18-19, 2017 Follow the conversation on Twitter (@westgov) at #wgaworks Denver, Colorado I Denver, Colorado Follow the conversation on Twitter (@westgov) at #wgaworks Follow the conversation on Twitter (@westgov) at #wgaworks WORKSHOP SUPPORTERS

INITIATIVE AFFILIATES

2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE • PAGE 21 ON THE WEB Find the Initiative online resources and join the conversation at westgov.org

The central objective of the Western Governors’ Workforce Development Initiative is to leverage the region’s best thinking to bridge the gap between prospective workers and employers in the West and create enhanced career opportunities for students, graduates and displaced workers to help build a more vibrant regional economy. To ensure the conversation reaches the widest possible audience, WGA launched an online resource that includes videos of all Workshops, our Webinar series and a variety of other resources. We’ve also created the Initiative Appendix, a document that delivers expanded detail on the conversations at each workshop and webinar.

WORKSHOPS More than 300 attendees took part in the four regional Initiative workshops. The workshops were livestreamed on the web via Google and Facebook, and subsequently posted to YouTube. Workshops were hosted by Gov. Dennis Daugaard in South Dakota, Gov. John Hickenlooper in Colorado, Gov. Mary Fallin in Oklahoma and Gov. Jay Inslee in Washington.

WEBINARS

The Initiative webinar series featured leading thinkers on topics such as “Strategies to Expand You Apprenticeship,” “Moving Towards Career Readiness Goals,” “Rural Workforce Development Challenges,” and “Innovative Policy for Lifelong Learning.”

PAGE 22 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE PAGE 23 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE PAGE 24 • 2018 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE