WHAT WE DO

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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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.

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.

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.

Our Staff

Kim Parker-Llerenas

Executive Director

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Dean Craig

Business Services Director

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Suzie Gibson

Business Engagement Manager

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Amy Harrison

Finance Director

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Trina Horsey

Office Coordinator

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Ami Maceira

Program Director

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Kathy Moore

Youth Development Director

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Veronica Rosas

Program Manager

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Jenny Ma

Program Coordinator

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Pam Ferrara

Columnist & Special Projects

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Contractors and Contributors

Nimbl Inc.

Georgia Conrad

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Mid-Valley Behavioral Health

Consortium/Willamette Care Connects

Ryan Daven

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Front Line Evaluators

Susan Barksdale

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SYA LLC

Gary Mueller

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Board of Directors

Frances Alvarado

Erik Andersson

Francisco Bermudez Jr.

Ann Buchele

Patricia Callihan-Bowman

Ricardo Contrares

Katie Curry

Alvin Elbert

Aaron Ensign (Secretary/Treasurer)

Melody Garcia (Past Chair)

Luke Glaze

Ron Gutierrez

Patty Herzog

Heather Howard

Jessica Howard

Kris Latimer

Mike Ellison

Rhonda Meidinger

Shane Nehls

Carrie Norris (Chair)

Ricque Smith

Angie Villery

Mid-Willamette Jobs Council

Craig Pope

Polk County

Jobs Council Chair

Chief Local Elected Official

Board of Commissioners

Kit Johnston

Yamhill County
Jobs Council Vice Chair
Board of Commissioners

Will Tucker

Linn County

Board of Commissioners

Sherrie Sprenger

Linn County

Board of Commissioners

Danielle Bethell

Marion County

Board of Commissioners

Colm Willis

Marion County

Board of Commissioners

Lyle Mordhorst

Polk County

Board of Commissioners

Lindsey Berschauer

Yamhill County

Board of Commissioners