Career Ready Workforce

In today’s global, knowledge-based economy, states and local communities are increasingly differentiated based on their ability to educate, train and recruit a qualified workforce that meets the needs of industry. Even as middle and high-skilled jobs grow in Iowa, the availability of a skilled workforce is a major area of concern to Iowa businesses.  Combined with Iowa’s weak population growth, the availability of a trained workforce is likely to plague Iowa for many years to come. The engagement of businesses to create solutions to workforce development is paramount.  Identifying the job demands of the future, working with K-16 education to engage students and teachers, and developing career pathways are essential areas of public/private partnerships for IBC members.   

The members of the council recognize the importance and urgency around growing a career ready workforce in Iowa. In response to this challenge, the council engages both public and private institutions to develop long-term education and workforce strategies that cultivate a diverse, highly skilled population capable of meeting current and emerging workforce needs. 

Initiatives include:

  • Continue to support the efforts of the Future Ready Iowa initiative.
  • Support the Iowa Department of Education’s work-based learning clearinghouse and pursue virtual work-based learning opportunities among IBC members.
  • Engage in policy initiatives that increase access to affordable, high-quality child care services throughout Iowa.
  • Coordinate and support the efforts of the Business Education Alliance, which aligns stakeholders in business and education to meet the current and future workforce needs of Iowa.

 

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