Workforce Development Month, founded in 2005, celebrates the programs and professionals who connect people with meaningful careers and businesses to skilled talent. This year, it is the 20th anniversary of Workforce Development Month. We are honoring the two-decade tradition of recognizing the impact of workforce development initiatives in shaping careers, strengthening businesses, and building thriving communities. To mark this special occasion, we've compiled 20 facts about Workforce Development Month and the industry it celebrates.
It’s important to understand where this tradition began, so let's hit rewind. The first five facts on our list focus on the history of Workforce Development Month, from its beginning in 2005 to key milestones that have shaped this observance over the past two decades.
#1: The Founding Organization. Workforce Development Month was established in 2005 by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). NAWDP is a professional organization that works to connect job seekers, educators, and companies to advance the workforce development community and build innovative partnerships with other industry-leading organizations.
#2: The Month Changed! Workforce Development Month was originally celebrated in May. NAWDP moved the observance to September in 2012.
#3: From WIA to WIOA. The transition from the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was a major change. Signed into law in 2014, WIOA put a greater emphasis on serving individuals with barriers to employment and aligning services more closely with the needs of businesses.
#4: Gaining Official Acknowledgement. Workforce Development Month received official recognition in 2022. The U.S. Senate passed a resolution marking September as National Workforce Development Month, and this designation has been renewed every year since.
#5: State and Local Recognition. While NAWDP started it, its success is a result of widespread support. Every September, governors and mayors across the nation issue official statements, called proclamations, that formally recognize the month.
While workforce development is celebrated in September, the work takes place all year, and American Job Centers are where the action takes place. The next facts are all about American Job Centers (AJC), also known as one-stop shops. These centers are the front lines of workforce development, offering resources and personalized help to job seekers and employers in communities nationwide.
#6: They are Everywhere: There are nearly 2,400 American Job Centers nationwide, with a location in almost every community. They serve as a central hub where people can access a wide variety of career services in one place.
#7: They are a Product of WIOA: The modern American Job Center system exists because of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. WIOA requires states to provide an integrated system, ensuring job seekers can access the resources they need to succeed in a competitive economy.
#8: Built on Collaboration: AJCs are a collaborative effort, bringing together a variety of programs and agencies under one roof. They work with mandatory partners, including services for adult education, vocational rehabilitation, and veterans, to provide a coordinated approach to workforce development.
#9: Free and Accessible Help: The services offered by AJCs, such as career counseling, job search assistance, résumé writing workshops, and access to computers and phones, are provided at no cost to the public.
#10: They Are Locally Driven: The American Job Center network is a national system, but it is designed for local needs. State and local workforce development boards, which are made up of community and business leaders, manage the centers in their area. This ensures that the services that are offered align with the specific labor market demands of that community.
The American Job Centers are where workforce development happens, but the professionals and front-line staff make it work. These individuals are responsible for carrying out the mission of workforce development, helping job seekers and businesses in communities nationwide. The following five facts shine a light on those professionals who staff AJCs and other organizations.
#11: A Growing Field: The demand for skilled workforce development professionals is expected to remain strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of Training and Development Specialists is projected to grow 12% from 2023 to 2033, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to roughly 48,500 new jobs over the decade.
#12: Certification is Key: Many professionals in the field get certified to demonstrate their skills and expertise. The most recognized credential is the Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP), offered by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). This certification proves a professional's expertise in key areas like communication, ethics, and job market knowledge.
#13: Leaders in the Industry: NAWDP is a member-driven organization. Its leadership, including the Board of Directors and staff, consists of elected members who represent different regions and states. This ensures the organization’s leadership reflects the interests of workforce development professionals nationwide. The Board and NAWDP staff work together to set goals and support the profession.
#14: Skills for Success: To work as a workforce development professional, certain skills are essential. The top skills requested in thousands of job listings are Workforce Development (53%), followed by Writing (38%), and Management (31%). These are the skills hiring employers look for most often.
#15: Diverse Career Paths: Workforce development professionals hold a wide range of jobs, from career counselors to program managers, and they work in diverse settings, including government agencies, non-profits, and private companies. Their main goal is to identify and address challenges in the workforce, helping people get the skills and support they need to succeed in their careers.
The individuals on the front lines are key, but what do their combined efforts achieve? The final five facts explore the impact of workforce development and why celebrating each September is so important.
#16: Growing Individual Income: Workforce development programs have a tangible impact on the earning potential of participants. People who complete these programs have the potential to earn more, and some participants do see a significant increase in their income. A study by the US Department of Labor on job training found that participants' earnings increased by an average of 49% after finishing their apprenticeship.
#17: Bridging the Skills Gap: The skills gap is a major challenge for businesses, with many employers reporting they cannot find qualified talent. Workforce development helps close this gap. According to a 2024 Workforce Skills Gap Trends survey, 70% of corporate leaders report a critical skills gap, and 63% identify skill gaps as the biggest barrier to business transformation. Programs like apprenticeships and customized training ensure that companies have skilled talent, boosting productivity and innovation.
#18: Driving Economic Growth: Workforce development strengthens local and national economies. Employees with relevant skills contribute more effectively to their industries, earn higher wages, and stimulate economic mobility. A skilled workforce can also quickly change to meet the demands of new industries or adapt to changes, making the economy more resilient.
#19: Employee Retention: Employee retention is directly tied to career development. Businesses that offer opportunities for growth and skill-building are more likely to retain their employees. According to Gallup's 2024 research, 42% of employee turnover is preventable, and career advancement opportunities are crucial. Employees with a clear path for growth and opportunities are more engaged and less likely to look for work elsewhere.
#20: Support for All: Workforce development provides resources for specific groups to help them overcome unique employment challenges. This includes services for veterans transitioning to civilian careers, individuals with disabilities seeking accommodations, youth looking for their first job, and older workers seeking to reskill. These programs ensure everyone has an opportunity to succeed in the job market.
We've covered the history, the professionals, the places, and the powerful impact of workforce development. This work is about more than a single month. It is a year-round commitment to building a more skilled, resilient, and equitable workforce.
Geographic Solutions celebrates this important month and the essential work that happens year-round. We are honored to provide the technology that helps connect job seekers with training and careers, supporting the mission of workforce development professionals every day.