Bridging the Skills Gap: How Career and Technical Education Prepares Colorado Students for the Workforce
Did you know that February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month?
Getting ready for jobs can be a bit like solving a puzzle. Colorado, just like other places, has a challenge called the “skills gap.” This means there’s a difference between what skills companies need and what skills people have. Let’s explore how Colorado is using something special called Career and Technical Education (CTE) to help students bridge this gap and get ready for jobs.
Labor Supply/Demand Report 1st Quarter 2024
The first quarter 2024 labor supply/demand report delivers a comprehensive overview of the employment landscape in the Metro Denver area. The report analyzes job hires, separations, and layoffs in the U.S. and Colorado, emphasizing trends like new unemployment trends claims and business applications. It sheds light on a labor supply deficit, featuring top hard skills, certifications, software skills, and companies in demand.
Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Co-Hosts Job Fair
Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Workforce Center, in collaboration with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s Rapid Response Team, and the City of Englewood hosted a job fair on December 14, 2023 for the 154 employees who were impacted by the Ouray Sportswear, LLC closure. About 63 employees attended the event and some were offered employment, which helped minimize the impact of the layoff.
This was the fourth job fair that Arapahoe/Douglas Works! co-hosted with City of Englewood in 2023.
Read the entire article from the Englewood Herald at https://bit.ly/3HrpRMk.
Customer Success Spotlight
Thomas was referred to Arapahoe/Douglas Works! for the Colorado Works (TANF) Program due to being unemployed and needing support. As a single father, Thomas was eager to find a job and provide for his family. Although he was pursing work, he found it difficult to obtain employment due to being justice-involved. Thomas previously had a commercial driver’s license (CDL), but it was suspended. He hoped to reinstate his CDL and work as a driver again in the future.
During his participation in the Colorado Works Program, Thomas received job search assistance and supportive services such as transportation assistance and school clothing and school supplies for his children. He also received coaching support from a Workforce Specialist, which included completing career exploration assessments and workshops to enhance his job search skills.
With help from the Colorado Works Program, Thomas accomplished his goal of having his CDL reinstated. He was also supported in finding an employer that would be accepting of his justice-involved background. Ultimately, Thomas was able to secure a job earning $32.50 per hour as a full-time driver. With his new employment, Thomas is on a path to reach his goal of self-sufficiency.
Visit https://bit.ly/CWTANF to learn more about the Colorado Works (TANF) Program.