What We Do

WHAT WE DO | STAFF | BOARD OF DIRECTORS | JOBS COUNCIL

Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP) is a Workforce Development Board committed to building a thriving workforce in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley. WWP is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) governed by a board of directors, and supports a cross-sector of employers in creating sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities while supporting job seekers to build skills that help them achieve their employment, education and professional development goals. We also work with partners, funders and policymakers to identify and address local labor market needs, trends, and priorities. By building strategic partnerships, providing funding for innovative programs and services, and convening various communities and experts, WWP is strengthening our workforce and preparing the next generation of workers to drive long-term economic growth in our region.

MISSION

Through collaboration, training and outreach, Willamette Workforce Partnership efficiently drives results that lead to a skilled workforce, successful employers and thriving communities.

VISION

The Willamette Valley has a vibrant economy and prosperous communities through a dynamic, engaged and innovative workforce.

PURPOSE STATEMENT

To build a skilled workforce by supporting businesses with the talent they need for sustainable growth and
connecting individuals with employment opportunities.

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What is WIOA?

Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA)

WIOA promotes and requires strong partnerships and strategies for the workforce development system and one-stop centers. Funding requirements include providing job seekers and workers with high-quality career services, education and training, and supportive services they need to get good jobs and stay employed. The system helps businesses find skilled workers and access other supports, including education and training for their current workforce.

WIOA empowers State and Local elected officials and private sector-led workforce boards with the responsibility of developing a strategic, integrated plan that supports economic growth and labor force needs intended to grow the capacity and performance of the workforce system.

Who are Local Workforce Boards?

Local Workforce Development Boards

The primary framework behind the Willamette Workforce Partnership Board is to serve as the community leader and catalyst for alignment of workforce with economic development. The Board provides policy guidance that builds an environment where every person maximizes his or her career potential, and all employers and businesses have the human resources they need to grow and prosper.

Who is on the Workforce Board?

The Workforce Board

Our board of director membership composition includes over fifty percent representatives from the private sector, with the remaining members representing educational entities, labor organizations, community-based organizations, economic development agencies, and other federally required one-stop partners. All board members are appointed by the Jobs Council which is comprised of two county commissioners from each of the four counties we serve.

Board Member Interest Form

I’m Interested

What is a Sunshine Provision?

A Sunshine provision is a transparency law requiring certain government agencies or industry entities to conduct business openly and publicly, with one prominent example being the Federal Government in the Sunshine Act that mandates open meetings for federal agencies, subject to specific exemptions. WWP is required to provide the public adequate notice of meetings, including time, place, and subject matter.

Future Ready Oregon at Work

In the Spring of 2022 Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP) received a unique request for funding. Thanks to Future Ready Oregon, Prosperity 10,000 funding, WWP entered into an agreement to pay for flying lessons for a group of individuals who were ‘new neighbors’ in the Salem area. This group had been pilots in Afghanistan during the war and had flown alongside US troops. They knew how to fly, and they knew how to speak English. However, they did not have the required licensure to fly in the US. WWP was honored to fund this critical training so they could once again be pilots in their new country. This video highlights the individuals, and their story.

The Willamette Workforce Partnership team is deeply saddened by the plane crash in Polk County which claimed the lives of three Afghan Refugees who were participating in a pilot training program we supported. This program was designed to fund training for participants while supporting their aspirations and integration into their new community.

The tragic loss of these individuals, who had shown remarkable resilience and dedication, weighs heavily on our hearts. We extend our sincerest condolences to their friends, families, and the broader community affected by this devastating event.

We stand in solidarity with those mourning and encourage those wishing to offer support or contribute to funeral expenses to reach out to Salem For Refugees, the coordinating organization for this effort.

Willamette Workforce Partnership is dedicated to fostering a community that values diversity, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams, particularly in times of heartbreak.

Future Ready Oregon

In 2022, WWP invested $1.3 million in workforce investment funds for high-demand skills training benefiting underserved communities. Watch the video to see the results.

Watch Full Video