OCCUPATIONAL COUNCILS TARGET SKILLS GAPS

Last Wednesday, the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee wrapped up research for a one-year evaluation of its Occupational Councils (OCs) model. The study, conducted in conjunction with a Stupski Foundation Learning Grant, showed that Council members see the OCs as a critical platform for communication among the region’s economic stakeholders. As one member explained, “The Council serves as a great resource to discuss best practices within an industry that needs additional education for prospective students/members/educators.”

Employers surveyed expressed enthusiasm for the Occupational Councils’ ability to connect them with potential talent through hands-on experiences such as classroom visits and industry-specific career fairs, as well as the opportunities for cross-sector collaboration. As another member stated, “Whenever we are able to freely share best practices/challenges, and create opportunities that help all, we each benefit.”

First implemented in 2016 in partnership with the Bay Area Community College Consortium, Occupational Councils are groups of employers working together in conjunction with educators and trainers to solve the skills gaps pertaining to specific industries or middle-skills occupations. In response to the overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Workforce of the Future Committee is looking to recruit new employer members and establish additional Occupational Councils to facilitate information-sharing between employers, educators, and job seekers.

If you are interested in learning more about the Occupational Councils and other employer programs, please contact Senior Vice President Linda Bidrossian.