Workforce development takes on a different meaning in the current employment environment. Lexington council members got an update on the city’s workforce initiatives last week.
Business and Workforce Engagement Director Elodie Dickinson said the WORK pilot project continues at the Charles Young Center on Third Street. Nine workforce providers offer in-person job placement and job training opportunities to nearby residents. Dickinson admitted it has been a bit slow at the center. “Any other time in this history of workforce it would have been better. But now, as you know from all the articles you’re reading, the workforce participation rate is down everywhere. The timing is not necessarily there,” said Dickinson.
Dickinson stressed the opportunities for assistance at Charles Young remain steady. She said the prime working age is fluid. Dickinson said this may create more opportunities for young high school aged people. “They, maybe, have not been given a chance before, but I can see that that might be a population that we can work with to address some of those lower wage or entry level jobs I should say. It’s giving them an opportunity to gain some skills and some work experience,” said Dickinson.
During her update, Dickinson reported on economic development grant outcomes. In 2020, there were 300 job placements with the top three sectors in manufacturing, hospitality, and skilled trades.
