Ventura County Workforce Development Board Seeks Public Comments On 4-Year Workforce Plan
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VENTURA, Calif. - Californer -- The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDB) has released its 2021-2024 regional and local plans for workforce and economic development in the county. The plans are available for public review and comments.

WDB serves as a facilitator between public and private sectors, creating partnerships that will strengthen the Ventura County economy and match well-paying jobs with a trained workforce.

WDB received input from industry sector leaders, economic development entities, labor unions, education, government, and community-based organizations to compile the reports containing solutions for more robust economic and job growth.

According to the Ventura County Civic Alliance's 2019 State of the Region, Ventura County's economic growth has not topped 1.5% annually since 2013. "These temperate numbers were before COVID-19," says WDB Executive Director Rebecca Evans. "Economic projections are changing and challenging to predict as we look toward recovering from the pandemic. Our Local and Regional plans are set up to continue engaging local industry and stakeholders so we can adapt and respond as the recovery unfolds."

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Included in the reports are the findings of a WDB survey of businesses in 2020. Of those employers responding, 58% said a lack of skilled workers in their industry has made hiring difficult. According to the survey, the industries experiencing the most persistent labor skills gaps are manufacturing and product design, health care and medical technology, and building and construction trades.

"If businesses can't find skilled workers locally, there is a risk that they might move their operations elsewhere," says Tracy Perez, Market Manager at Manpower and WDB Chair. "Our plans address the disparity between those in well-paying jobs and those who are struggling. We layout how we can provide workers with the skills and credentials necessary to secure financially-rewarding jobs and advance their careers. In turn, businesses will then be able to hire skilled workers to help them grow their business right here in Ventura County."

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The reports also offer solutions in childcare and address training needs for individuals with disabilities, English language learners, justice involved individuals, veterans, homeless, and at-risk youth.

The reports are available at https://workforceventuracounty.org/about-us/wdb-regional-and-local-plans. Send public comments to HSA-Info.WDB@ventura.org. Public comments will be accepted until March 26, 2021.