Network offers one-stop centers matching workers and employers

Virginia Business
October 2005

When the Governor's Summit on Workforce and Economic Develop-ment gets under way this month in Portsmouth, discussion inevitably will turn to what the state can do to find more qualified workers for its industries.

Luckily, a matchmaker of sorts is already at work pairing qualified workers with employers. It is called the Virginia Workforce Network, a system of career centers and other services funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998.

"The network operates one-stop centers across the state, serving employees and employers, matching company needs with skilled workers," says Judy Begland, president and CEO of Opportunity Inc. "In 2004, approximately 6,000 individuals took advantage of our resources at our two storefront locations [Norfolk and Franklin County] and at our base location at Oceana in Virginia Beach."

Opportunity Inc. serves the Hampton Roads region, which includes more than one million residents and a work force of approximately 530,000. It is one of 17 designated Workforce Investment Areas across the state funded by the federal act.

The work force centers are operated by the Virginia Employment Commission with the guidance of the Virginia Workforce Council and local Workforce Investment Boards.

Officials describe the Virginia Workforce Network as a partnership between business leaders and government. Their combined efforts are designed to ensure a continuous supply of trained employees prepared to meet the work force demands of the state's industries. Large employers such as Dollar Tree, Home Depot and the maritime industry, are active participants in the network. However, the program is designed to handle businesses of all sizes.

"We represent a critical component in economic development," says Begland. "Our programs support the human capital requirements of development to attract new businesses and help existing businesses expand in our region."

The Virginia Workforce Network maintains a Web site with a list of training programs and authorized providers available to employers and employees. These programs must meet the application procedures and standards of the local Workforce Investment Boards and are then approved by the Commonwealth of Virginia. To remain on the list, organizations and training providers are required to meet annual performance requirements.

In addition to the training centers, the network operates an online customer service resource called CareerConnect. Designed to assist employers and employees with questions about the program, CareerConnect also maintains a library of educational, employment and career information.

"There is typically no charge to the employer to access this service," says Begland. "Businesses serve on our boards; dedicate their time to training program creation; and offer on-the-job training opportunities."

"We want to make sure that all Virginians obtain the skills they need to get the good jobs that allow them to support their families," says Gov. Mark R. Warner in remarks prepared for Workforce Development Month in October. "We also have to make sure we offer a well qualified work force [to current and prospective businesses] that will attract 21st century jobs to our communities."