INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Pence officially proclaimed September 1-7, 2016 as Workforce Development Week, which recognizes and raises awareness for the many organizations, training professionals and public programs that are preparing the Hoosier workforce to fill the one-million-plus jobs projected to become available over the next decade. This is also an opportunity for Hoosiers to discover the many training programs and career-development opportunities available right in their local community.
“I extend my gratitude to the thousands of educators and workforce professionals who strengthen Indiana’s workforce through helping Hoosiers learn new skills, attain industry-recognized credentials or further their education,” said Indiana Department of Workforce Development Commissioner Steven J. Braun. “Equally important as the the tangible benefits, your service provides Hoosiers with hope and optimism for a better job and a better life for their families.”
Throughout Workforce Development Week, DWD will highlight the many youth and adult education programs focused on skills development that are available inIndiana communities through a network of 88 WorkOne Career Centers and partnering education and workforce providers. Hoosiers who have benefited from a local training program, community workforce partners and media outlets are invited to join the conversation and share your stories using the hashtag #WorkforceWeek.
“I encourage all Hoosiers looking for a better career and those just entering the workforce to visit a WorkOne Career Center or local workforce organization to discover no-cost or low-cost career training opportunities available in your community,” added Commissioner Braun.
In addition to local programs, DWD reached several statewide milestones in the past year, including:
- Welcoming its 4,000 student to WorkINdiana – a program that enables Hoosiers to earn an industry-recognized credential while attaining their high school equivalency diploma or enhancing other skills.
- Receiving the prestigious “5 of 5” award for its Jobs for America’s Graduates program.
- Developing the nation’s first statewide robotics program for elementary school students.
- Administering the state’s first comprehensive work-and-learn program.
- Cultivating the state’s largest-ever public-private partnership initiative to advance skills training and vocational education in every region of the state.
