The dc workforce investment council is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening and expanding the workforce system in Washington DC. As the governor-designated state workforce investment board for the District of Columbia, it brings together leaders from business, labor, education, government, and community-based organizations to guide investments in workforce development and advance employment opportunities for DC residents.
With workforce investment as its core mission, the council makes strategic use of funds to support training programs that build skills local employers need. It has invested over $60 million into initiatives focusing on key DC industries like technology, hospitality, construction, security, and healthcare. The council also analyzes labor market trends and commissions research to identify growing fields that require more trained workers. Additionally, it promotes collaboration between agencies and stakeholders to align resources that prepare Washingtonians for high-demand careers.
The council oversees and coordinates workforce development activities in DC
As the state workforce board for DC, a key role of the council is oversight and coordination of the District’s workforce system. This includes monitoring the use of federal workforce funds that flow into DC each year as well as guiding aligned investments by education, social services, and economic development agencies.
The council works closely with DC government agencies like the Department of Employment Services and Office of the State Superintendent of Education to implement statewide strategies focused on meeting industry talent needs while expanding access to careers for unemployed and underemployed residents.
Additionally, the council convenes working groups,task forces, and standing committees bringing together leaders who contribute diverse ideas and resources for strengthening DC’s workforce development pipeline.
The council sets policies and promotes partnerships to enhance the workforce system
Through its unique position, the council influences workforce policies and cultivates partnerships across DC government, private industry, and the nonprofit sector.
On the policy front, the council provides input and recommendations on proposed legislation and budget allocations impacting workforce development. Recently, this has included advocacy for increased funding to expand apprenticeship and work-based learning programs.
The council also facilitates solutions-focused dialogue between workforce agencies, education leaders, and top area employers. These collaborations lead to shared goals and coordinated approaches for preparing job candidates to meet hiring needs.
The council supports job seekers through funded programs and career navigation assistance
While setting strategic direction, the council also directly funds workforce development programs benefiting unemployed and underemployed Washingtonians.
Annually, it invests over $15 million in adult training services that build skills and credentials aligned to demand industries. The council also finances youth summer jobs for over 8,000 young residents each year as well as year-round job readiness, GED test prep, and alternative education offerings.
Residents looking to enter training, find a job, or advance their careers can access career navigation sessions provided by council-supported American Job Centers located throughout the District.
As a governor-appointed board guiding policy, investments, and partnerships, the DC Workforce Investment Council strives to cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers that keeps pace with the capital city’s growth. Its oversight of funding paired with visionary system-building has strengthened career pathways for thousands of residents.