Washington's Workforce Development System

Washington's workforce system helps residents become employed, re-enter the workforce, or move ahead in their careers.The programs begin with high school and reach through apprenticeships, certificate programs and college, but stop short of a four-year degree.

How are these programs performing? - Workforce Training Results

At the state level, the Workforce Board coordinates 16 programs administered by seven agencies. Every four years, the Workforce Board develops a state strategic plan to address state needs. The Board reports to the Legislature every year on the progress of this plan. At the local level, Washington's 12 Workforce Development Councils direct WIA Title I-B activities, provide employer outreach, and oversee the state's WorkSource employment centers. Each council develops a regional strategic plan assessing local employment to coordinate workforce activities throughout the state.

Taken together, the state-defined workforce development system manages over $862 million a year in state and federal funding.

Workforce Development Directory

Organization	Program	Funding
State Board for Community and Technical Colleges	Postsecondary Professional Technical Education Adult Basic Education Worker Retraining Program Job Skills Program Customized Training Program	$ 193,943,251 $ 91,445,316 $39,759,100 $ 2,275,000 $ 2,331,470
	Subtotal for State Board for Community and Technical Colleges	$329,754,137
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction	Secondary Career and Technical Education	$393,898,001
Employment Security Department	WIA, Title I-B Dislocated Worker Program WIA, Title I-B Adult Training Programs WIA, Title I-B Youth Activities Programs Training Benefits Program Wagner-Peyser	$ 22,715,887 $ 15,738,264 $ 16,959,549 Varies $ 14,676,520
	Subtotal for Employment Security Department	$70,090,220
Department of Social and Health Services	Division of Vocational Rehabilitation	$ 55,000,000
Department of Services for the Blind	Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind	$11,507,665
	Subtotal for DVR and DSB	$66,507,665
Department of Labor and Industries	Apprenticeship	$ 1,558,832
Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board	Carl D. Perkins Technical Education Private Vocational Schools Act	$ 631,885 $ 269,421
	Subtotal for Workforce Board	$901,306
Total Public Funds		$862,710,161