top of page

Workforce Development

The Workforce Development Department provides individuals with opportunities to gain the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to pursue meaningful employment and career advancement. Our programs offer industry-recognized certifications and practical training, enabling participants to take control of their professional growth and navigate career opportunities with confidence.   

Primary Goals

Primary Goals for the

Department of Workforce Development

Support Individuals in Pursuing Their Career Development: Create opportunities for participants to engage in training and certification programs that match th

​

  • Support Career Development : Provide training and certification opportunities aligned with participants’ professional goals to foster career growth.

  • Facilitate Access to Certifications : Offer pathways to industry-recognized credentials, allowing individuals to validate or expand their expertise.

  • Encourage Career Stability and Growth:  Equip participants with tools for stable, long-term employment, enhancing job security and promotion opportunities.

Programs Under the Workforce Development Department

Employment Support:

Provides resume assistance, mock interviews, and employer connections, guiding participants towards their career goals.

Career Fair Series:

Monthly fairs (February to November) limited to 10 employers, offering free recruitment opportunities with suggested donations for supporting the nonprofit.

Women’s Mentorship Program:

A six-month mentorship for Latina women in Dane County, focusing on mental health, family life, finances, and work-life balance, with tailored guidance to achieve personal and professional goals.

Contractor Accelerator Program:

Partnership program to educate building contractors on sustainability and green energy, aimed at City of Madison certification.

Transportation Accelerator Program:

Equips new and existing transportation business owners with resources for growth, promoting business and employment expansion.

Forklift Certification:

Certification course for experienced forklift operators covering principles like loading, inspection, hazard identification, and stability. Participants must pass both a written and practical exam.

Safety Trainings:

OSHA 10: 10-hour safety training covering essential health hazards for entry-level workers, focusing on workplace hazard recognition and prevention.

​

Fall Protection: Training on identifying and preventing fall hazards, specifically in construction, with a focus on OSHA standards for fall protection.

​

Silica Hazard: Course on the dangers of crystalline silica exposure, emphasizing safety protocols in silica-present environments.

ServSafe Certification:

This program, led by a registered ServSafe Proctor, provides comprehensive training on food safety practices, emphasizing safe handling and preparation methods for the food service industry.

Long-Term Impact on Workforce Stability

Our programs have provided participants with immediate employment opportunities and foundational skills for long-term career stability.

 

Through industry-recognized credentials and personalized support, participants have overcome employment barriers, gained confidence, and prepared for competitive industries.


As we continue these essential services, we expect more participants to secure stable, well-paying careers, promoting community uplift and long-term economic resilience.

 Impact Report

The Workforce Development Department has helped participants build sustainable careers through essential training, credentials, and personalized support.

14,552

One-on-One Support

194 hours of personalized support were provided to participants, helping them tailor their education and career plans to their individual needs.
 

269

Certification and Credential

A total of 43 participants earned industry-recognized credentials.

 

163

Participants Gaining Employment

16 participants secured employment after completing our training programs, many entering family-sustaining jobs with competitive wages.

287

Wage Growth

287 participants reported wage increases due to new skills and certifications.

Get Started on Your Volunteering Journey.

Not sure where you’d like to help? Explore our general volunteer opportunities and discover where your skills can make the biggest impact. We welcome volunteers with a variety of backgrounds and expertise, and there’s a role for everyone.

Join Our Team

bottom of page