Survey of Workforce Supply-Side Organizations

September 2021

Created by: Guild Consulting, HWFC

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This report was created to better understand the perspectives and needs of organizations involved in workforce development in Hawai‘i. The primary goal of the survey is to identify key opportunities and challenges in aligning workforce training programs with the economic demands of the state. The intended audience for this report includes policymakers, workforce development professionals, educators, funders, and community leaders. These stakeholders can use the findings to inform their efforts in creating coordinated, well-resourced training programs that address the barriers faced by job seekers.

KEY INSIGHTS

• Where are the opportunities to improve access to training and credentials?

  • Healthcare sector is seen a significant area for training.

  • Survey identified need for better coordination amongst supply-side organizations to achieve scale.

  • Providing wrap around support services, including childcare and transportation assistance is crucial for the success of training programs.

  • Apprenticeships and other work based learning opportunities are essential for developing practical skills and obtaining industry credentials.

  • Short-term credentialing programs can quickly equip job seekers with skills needed for high-demand jobs, and are designed to be flexible and accessible, meeting the immediate needs of the workforce.

• What do training providers see as the most critical sectors for economic growth in Hawaiʻi?

  The healthcare sector is highlighted as having the most opportunities for new jobs and economic growth, both in the short and long term. Additionally, scientific and technical services, and defense/military sectors are also identified as promising areas.

• How can Hawaiʻi improve coordination among workforce development organizations?

  Key barriers include a lack of coordination across geographic and organizational boundaries, insufficient wraparound services, and the need for more comprehensive data tracking and success metrics.

• What metrics are currently used to evaluate the success of workforce programs?

  Programs generally use enrollment and completion rates as primary metrics. However, there is a significant opportunity to adopt more robust success metrics that track progress through career pathways and long-term outcomes.

• What role does funding play in supporting workforce development programs?

  The largest sources of funding for direct service providers are federal and state grants. There is a need for increased private grant funding to diversify financial support and ensure the sustainability of workforce programs.