As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, so too must the strategies we use to prepare workers for the future. One approach gaining traction is the development of public-private partnerships (PPPs)—collaborative efforts between government entities, educational institutions, and private businesses. These partnerships have the potential to reshape how we tackle workforce challenges, providing innovative solutions […]

Data has become a cornerstone in workforce development, enabling professionals to make informed decisions that improve job seeker outcomes and support employer needs. Labor Market Information (LMI) provides a data foundation, offering insights into employment trends, in-demand skills, and economic shifts that help workforce development professionals design targeted, effective programs. Here’s a look at why […]

In an increasingly digital world, social media has become a pivotal tool in the job search process, particularly for younger generations. A recent U.S. study conducted by CareerArc, in collaboration with The Harris Poll, sheds light on this trend. The study, which surveyed over 2,000 U.S. adults who have held jobs, reveals some compelling statistics […]

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving work environment, resilience has become a crucial focus for employers, policymakers, and workforce development organizations. As technology advances, remote work becomes the norm, and job demands increase, prioritizing mental health is essential to foster a thriving workforce. Supporting the mental well-being of employees isn’t just compassionate—it’s strategic, enhancing performance, reducing […]

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastation across western North Carolina, the state is grappling with an overwhelming influx of unemployment insurance (UI) claims. Within just two weeks, over 25,000 claims have been filed, with 16,000 of those directly linked to the disaster. This surge represents a dramatic increase for a state that had been […]

The North Dakota IAWP Fall Conference was a resounding success, thanks to the exceptional leadership of Chapter President Shenille Lillejord and Executive Secretary Cindy Lynk. Their efforts made the event a memorable experience, filled with valuable insights and opportunities for professional growth. Attendees were able to connect and learn from one another through engaging presentations […]

With rapid advancements in generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), many workforce development professionals are concerned about the possibility of AI replacing human workers. However, recent findings from Indeed’s Hiring Lab suggest a different outcome. A thorough assessment of over 2,800 unique work skills concluded that none are “very likely” to be fully replaced by GenAI models, […]

The labor market is shifting, and the recent Bankrate Employment Security Survey reveals that nearly 48% of workers are considering a job change within the next year. This trend is notable given the economic landscape’s gradual shift from the post-pandemic hiring boom to a more stabilized job market. For workforce development professionals, these insights provide […]

The IAWP Oregon Chapter’s 2024 Fall Educational Institute, held on October 7 and 8 at the Salem Scottish Rite Center, was a transformative event filled with opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth. Ron Sohnery, President of the IAWP Oregon Chapter, played a crucial role in organizing the event, ensuring its success. Amber Drake shone […]

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the labor force nonparticipation rate—the percentage of people aged 16 and older who are neither working nor looking for work—rose significantly between 1999 and 2022. As workforce development professionals, understanding the reasons behind this trend is essential to addressing current workforce challenges. BLS data […]