The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was passed in 2014 and encourages states to align systems to support workforce development and career preparation. Community colleges and Career Technical Education providers are key partners in this work.
This brief from the Education Commission of the States examines the role that community colleges play in preparing learners for the workforce. The brief outlines a blueprint for community colleges to support implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) through four key strategies:
- Building partnerships with regional workforce development boards
- Serving as Eligible Training Providers and offering workforce development services under WIOA
- Using state set-aside funds to align employer demand with job seekers’ need
- Participating in WIOA plan development
For years, community colleges and other two-year postsecondary institutions have helped close access gaps and prepare learners for meaningful employment. This is an instructive resource to help state policymakers align funding streams and fully leverage WIOA to support workforce development in community colleges.
