Washington Workforce Association

WorkForce Central recently convened healthcare partners from across Pierce County for a Healthcare Roundtable, bringing together both long-time collaborators and new voices from across the healthcare community. The conversation included updates on regional workforce efforts and continued discussion around the Shared Faculty Model—an important strategy for strengthening the healthcare talent pipeline.

Workforce partnerships can create meaningful pathways to employment, especially in rural communities. Through the Open Doors learning center at WorkSource Okanogan, Skylar was able to continue her education while exploring career interests in healthcare. With support from workforce staff, she connected to a paid work experience at Regency Omak Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. After demonstrating reliability and growth on the job, Skylar was offered a permanent position. Her story reflects how coordinated support, work-based learning, and employer partnerships can help individuals move from recovery and instability into lasting employment.

WorkSource Grays Harbor has opened a new employment center at Grays Harbor College, expanding access to workforce services in the region. “This new location reflects our commitment to meeting people where they are,” said William Westmoreland, CEO of Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council. Strengthening connections between education, training, and employment helps connect talent with opportunity across rural communities. #WorkSourceWA #WWA #WorkforceDevelopment #GraysHarbor

Regional partnerships help connect job seekers with real opportunities. The Sound Jobs Career Fair at South Seattle College brought together nearly 200 job seekers and a wide range of employers and workforce partners focused on hospitality careers. Events like this demonstrate how coordinated efforts between education, workforce organizations, community partners, and employers can reduce barriers and accelerate hiring. Learn more about how partners across the region worked together to connect talent with opportunity.

Relocating to San Juan County isn’t easy, especially for young adults just beginning their careers. But with the right support, opportunity can take root anywhere. Through the WIOA I-B Out-of-School Youth Program and On-the-Job Training support, Northwest Workforce Council helped Lindsey transition into a career in surveying at Star Surveying in Friday Harbor. With training costs supported, Lindsey was able to focus fully on building technical skills, earning certifications, and gaining hands-on experience in the field. Stories like this highlight how workforce programs reduce financial barriers, support employers, and create pathways to long-term careers in communities across Washington. Congratulations to Lindsey and thank you to Northwest Workforce Council for strengthening local talent pipelines in San Juan County. Learn More: http://bit.ly/41hr2rH

Across Washington, the Community Reinvestment Program is driving real impact—supporting small businesses, expanding opportunity, and helping individuals move into good jobs that lead to long-term economic mobility.   Thank you to the Washington State Department of Commerce for highlighting these impacts and the continued investment in community-driven solutions.   This work reflects strong partnership across state agencies, local workforce boards, and community-based organizations to ensure investments are aligned, results-focused, and reaching those who need them most.   WWA is proud to support our 12 Local Workforce Development Boards in advancing this work statewide.

WorkForce Central continues to advocate for expanded access to education and training pathways that meet the needs of both workers and regional employers. Workforce Pell marks an important step forward, allowing Pell Grants to support high-quality, short-term, career-focused training programs for the first time. This change increases access to industry-aligned credentials in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, skilled trades, and IT, helping workers gain in-demand skills while strengthening the regional talent pipeline for employers. 

Northwest Workforce Council continues to demonstrate how partnerships expand opportunity for young adults navigating barriers to education and employment. Through collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Retail Stores, participants gain hands-on work experience that builds confidence, strengthens workplace skills, and supports long-term career pathways. Programs like these provide structured environments where young adults can develop customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that translate directly into permanent employment opportunities and increased economic stability. Learn More: https://lnkd.in/gXcJfdr6

Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County has released the February 2026 Workforce Index, providing a current view of labor market conditions across the region. The latest data shows unemployment at 4.9%, more than 60,000 job postings across 8,000+ employers, and a median advertised wage of $91.9K. Postings requiring artificial intelligence skills are up 108% year over year. The data reflects an active labor market with tighter transitions and increasing pressure on skills alignment and re-employment support. Consistent, regional labor market insight like this helps workforce leaders and partners respond to fast-moving conditions with clarity. Explore the full February update: https://lnkd.in/gaYXwxRV

Washington’s Local Workforce Development Boards are applauding lawmakers and partners for their strong support of programs that help move Washingtonians toward economic stability. Through initiatives like Economic Security for All (EcSA) and the Community Reinvestment Program, workforce boards across the state are helping individuals overcome barriers, access training, and connect with family-wage careers. These investments strengthen communities, support employers, and create pathways out of poverty for thousands of Washington residents. Read the full media release: https://lnkd.in/duTUDS4Z