In 2023, Jobs for the Future (JFF) and the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) formed the Task Force on Data, Access, Alignment, and Integration for Improved Workforce Outcomes, an executive task force formed from workforce development boards across the country, to explore how federal policies can better utilize existing workforce systems to deliver people-first, equity-centered results for all. Marie Kurose, CEO of the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, was honored to serve as a member of this task force. The principles and recommendations outlined in this report lean into the power of the nation’s workforce development system while remaining locally responsive and data-driven.

We want everyone to have access to high-quality training programs. These programs should open doors to good jobs with career pathways. We’ve joined forces with Jobs for the Future (JFF) and the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) to figure out what changes we need to make the U.S. workforce training system better for everyone. Especially, to center racial equity and job quality within the needs of both today’s job market and what’s expected in the future.