The 2012-2016 Strategic Plan

Executive Summary

The Northwest Workforce Council, in consultation with local elected officials, oversees the one-stop (WorkSource) system programs and WIA Title 1-B employment and training programs, coordinates local area workforce development services, and provides expertise and demand-driven workforce services to employers and job seekers in Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and San Juan Counties. The members of the Council are charting an important course to help our local businesses and communities realize a more prosperous future.

The strategic plan is a “living” document, particularly so in a time of volatility and uncertainty in the economy and a business environment under considerable strain. The Council and its Partners will consult it often, revise our course as necessary, and mark the milestones as we work to realize our shared vision.

The Strategic Plan for 2012-2016 assesses local industry and business talent needs and sets forth strategies for the local workforce development system consistent with the state strategic workforce system goals in “High Skills, High Wages” and in the Governor’s economic development plan for the state, “The Next Washington, Growing Jobs and Income in a Global Economy”. It describes how the Council will continue work already initiated to enhance services and outcomes for customers, including the pursuit of operating efficiencies within the local workforce development system.

The strategic plan reflects a deep commitment by the Council to the economic vitality of the community and a confidence in the ability to redesign and re-energize the workforce development system to meet the evolving demands of both local and global economies.

Click here to view the full Strategic Plan.
Click here to view the Strategic Plan Amended to include Appendix III.