Our Work

The Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County (WDC) aspires to lead transformative change that will evolve our region's workforce development efforts into an innovative industry, community, and outcome-driven system with racial equity at its core.

The WDC serves as the Local Workforce Development Board, designated by the City of Seattle Mayor and King County Executive, to set policy and administer federal workforce development funds under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

As the regional workforce backbone, we partner with over 40 community based organizations and reach more than 30,000 job seekers and 2,000 businesses on an annual basis, pursuing comprehensive solutions that elevate job quality and address racial and economic disparities.

Vision

All people in this region, regardless of race or ethnicity, share in its economic prosperity.

Mission

We catalyze system change in the Puget Sound region to increase the prosperity and economic growth of workers, employers, and communities and to ensure racial equity.

Access Workforce Services

As a workforce intermediary, we:

Advocate for system change of industry practices and to address barriers
Broker a shared regional approach of strategies that are responsive to both community and industry needs
Access and amplify resources by braiding funding sources
Incubate & innovate strategies for racial equity impact and system change
Analyze & use data to measure impact/drive system change

Job Quality

Job quality is central to our mission. For employers, it’s essential for retaining employees and fostering satisfaction. By promoting fair wages, supportive environments, and growth opportunities, we help businesses build productive teams, driving long-term success and a thriving workforce.

What Makes a Quality Job?

Fair Wages

Jobs that offer family-sustaining pay, stable and predictable income, and opportunities to build wealth and assets.

Safe Workplaces

Inclusive, healthy, and accessible conditions that are free from discrimination and harassment.

Economic Mobility

Clear pathways for advancement with paid training and development opportunities that promote career growth.

Comprehensive Benefits

Sufficient benefits like health insurance, paid leave, retirement savings, and disability coverage that support overall well-being.

Credit to the Workers and Families Fund and the Aspen Institute

Industry Strategies

Job Stability

Reliable scheduling and secure employment that fosters fairness and confidence in the workplace.

Equity, Respect & Voice

A culture of transparency and accountability that values employee input, promotes belonging, and welcomes workers’ concerns and ideas for improvement through collective or participatory practices.