The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), enacted in 2014, represents a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s workforce development system. It was designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global […]

The skills gap, defined as the discrepancy between the skills employers need and the skills job seekers possess, remains a significant challenge in today’s labor market. This gap can result in unfilled jobs and hindered economic growth while leaving many workers underemployed or unemployed. To bridge this divide, innovative training programs and approaches have been […]

The International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) stands as a beacon of dedication and innovation in the field of workforce development, tracing its illustrious history back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1913, the association was born from a visionary mission to enhance the effectiveness of public employment offices and support professionals dedicated to […]

The ADP Research Institute’s “People at Work 2024: A Global Workforce View” sheds light on evolving worker expectations as the world navigates a post-pandemic landscape. Based on survey responses from nearly 35,000 workers in 18 countries, this fourth annual report reveals critical insights into how technological advancements, economic shifts, and demographic changes are reshaping the […]

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) represents a pivotal shift in how the United States approaches workforce development, placing a strong emphasis on inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities. Among its many provisions, the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program stands out as a beacon of hope, offering tailored services to help individuals with disabilities […]

As the U.S. population ages, so does its workforce. A recent report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) reveals a significant shift: in 2023, 29.5% of the workforce was aged 65 or older, up from 23% in 2000. This trend aligns with increased labor force participation among Americans aged 55 to 64, surpassing pre-pandemic […]

History of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was signed into law by President Barack Obama on July 22, 2014, and took effect on July 1, 2015. It replaced the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, which aimed to address the needs of the American workforce and economy […]

The traditional model of the satisfied employee – one motivated solely by a paycheck and benefits – is fading fast. Today’s workforce, particularly younger generations, craves more meaning and fulfillment from their work. They are the purpose-driven workforce, seeking jobs that align with their values and contribute to something larger than themselves. This shift presents […]

The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed the job market. In today’s economy, nearly every occupation demands some level of digital literacy, ranging from basic computer skills to advanced data analysis. Despite this widespread need, a significant digital skills gap persists, leaving many American workers struggling to remain competitive. The Urgency of Digital Skills Training Recent […]

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming the field of workforce development, significantly affecting the roles and responsibilities of workforce development professionals. These changes present both opportunities and challenges, requiring a shift in skills and approaches to effectively harness AI’s potential. Here’s how AI is influencing the profession: Skill Redefinition and Job Evolution: AI-driven automation is […]