Narrative: II. a. 2.

A. The State’s Workforce Development Activities

The State of West Virginia is comprised seven local workforce development areas. A minimum of one comprehensive American Job Center of West Virginia (AJCWV) is located in each area.

•  Region 1: The Region 1 Workforce Development Board, headquartered in Beckley, administers workforce activities in an eleven-county region covering the southeastern portion of the State.
•  Region 2: The Southwestern West Virginia Workforce Development Board, located in Huntington, governs a seven-county region in the southwestern portion of the State.
• Region 3: The Workforce Development Board of Kanawha County oversees activities in the State’s only single-county workforce development region from its office in Charleston.
• Region 4: Nine counties are served by the Workforce Development Board Mid-Ohio Valley, which is located in Parkersburg.
• Region 5: The Northern Panhandle Workforce Development Board provides services in six counties and is based in Wheeling.
• Region 6: The Region 6 Workforce Development Board, located in Fairmont, provides services in a thirteen-county region in the north-central portion of the State.
• Region 7: Eight counties in the easternmost portion of West Virginia are served by the Region 7 Workforce Development Board located in Moorefield.

West Virginia core and partner programs participate in comprehensive one-stop workforce development services through both in-person programs and as part of a shared electronic referral system. Programs include:

• WIOA Title I Adult- The Adult program serves participants aged 18 or older in need of employment or career advancement, with priority of service given to participants who receive public assistance, other low-income individuals, and individuals who are basic skills deficient. If a participant is also an eligible Veteran or spouse of a Veteran, the priority of service is extended to the covered person. Individuals deemed ready for work are provided career services to assist them in finding existing employment opportunities. Individuals not ready for employment or looking for employment in a new field are provided training to prepare them with the skills necessary to meet the needs of employers.
• WIOA Title I Dislocated Worker- The Dislocated Worker program assists workers, who are 18 years or older, before or after a layoff to help facilitate rapid reemployment. Dislocated Workers with requisite skills may be directly referred to employers with hiring needs. Other Dislocated Workers, such as displaced homemakers and spouses of veterans, may require training and other services to meet the skill requirements of employers.
• WIOA Title I Youth- The Youth program offers eligible youth and young adults (ages 14-24) high-quality case management support toward their educational attainment and future employment. Services include career guidance and exploration, summer and/or year-round work experience opportunities such as internships and pre-apprenticeships, and career pathway skills training for in-demand industries and occupations, along with any necessary supportive services. The attainment of education, skills, and work experience can make youth participants more attractive candidates for employers to hire.
• WIOA Title II Adult Education- Adult Education is a critical partner in establishing career pathways for adults who lack basic skills. Funded programs provide a full range of services from beginning level literacy through high adult secondary and transition activities to support college and career readiness, including English language acquisition activities. Programs provide basic skills instruction in the context of work readiness, incorporating workplace preparation activities as well as career awareness and planning into instruction and services. Adult Education program administrators and other staff develop relationships and partnerships at the local level to support alignment of Adult Education services with those of other programs and workforce development system (WDS) partners, including working with local Business Service Teams (BSTs). Funded programs, when possible and appropriate, provide integrated education and training, which requires three components offered concurrently and contextualized to an occupation or occupational cluster: adult education, workforce preparation, and workforce training. Integrated education and training activities must align with local workforce needs; prepare students for realistic, existing employment opportunities; and be developed in consultation with local workforce development boards (LWDB), employers, and training providers.
• WIOA Title III Wagner-Peyser- Wagner-Peyser staff provide employment services to both job seekers and employers by placing individuals in employment and helping employers recruit workers.
• WIOA Title IV Vocational Rehabilitation- The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) aims to fulfill its roles and responsibilities as a core WIOA partner by providing high-quality, individualized vocational rehabilitation (VR) services to its consumers with disabilities and expert consultation and technical assistance to employers so they can include or retain people with disabilities in their workforce. WVDRS provides a continuum of services to consumers with disabilities beginning at age 14 to enable them to achieve competitive integrated employment. Through early engagement, WVDRS provides career exploration and planning services to students and youth with disabilities to set them on a path to high-quality employment. This can include postsecondary training, work-based learning experiences, assistive technology, and support services, including those provided by other partner agencies.
• Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)- Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) helps people who become unemployed due to layoffs that result from foreign imports or a shift of production out of the United States. TAA eligible workers receive services and training to assist them in returning to the workforce. Services and training provided ensure that TAA recipients have the skills needed to find reemployment within the industry they were laid off from or to enter a new industry with more employment opportunities.
• Jobs for Veterans Grant (LVER/DVOP)- Through the Jobs for Veterans Grant program, Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists assist veterans with significant barriers to employment including homelessness, previous incarceration, and low-income status. Another element of the program is carried out by Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) who meet with employers, plan and participate in job and career fairs, and conduct job development with employers on behalf of job-ready veterans. LVERs work with BSTs to promote qualified veterans to employers seeking candidates. 
• Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)- The CSBG is a federal anti-poverty program that provides support and resources to a network of 16 Community Action Agencies (CAAs) and other statewide organizations to reduce poverty, revitalize low-income communities, and provide economic opportunities for low-income families.
• Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP)- SCSEP is a grant-funded, community service and work-based training program that provides eligible seniors (persons aged 55 or older with limited incomes) with the hands-on training experience needed to obtain employment. In order to maximize SCSEP participant placement in unsubsidized employment in high demand jobs, the statewide SCSEP network; which consists of the one State and one National grantee, will focus their on-the-job training opportunities and host agency recruitment efforts with agencies that can provide training for the types of occupations forecasted based on Industry Sector of New Hires 2019 to hire older workers. When available, training opportunities will increase to provide a variety of opportunities that have a higher percentage of developing into unsubsidized employment. Training in computer literacy continues to be at the forefront, as this is a necessity in most occupations that forecast continued employment. Computer training opportunities are provided through entities, such as local American Job Centers (AJC), local Community Colleges, and public libraries. When appropriate, program coordinators and host agencies encourage participation in specialized computer training opportunities. SCSEP has also implemented the Senior Evolve program which provides iPads to eligible participants to help decrease technophobia, and to help improve computer skills and job searching.  Another strategy for older workers to be placed into unsubsidized employment would be to investigate occupations that require minimum training, as this would help the statewide SCSEP network meet the employment goals listed in the core measures that are set forth by DOL. The SCSEP Network continues to partner and utilize resources such as transition programs, adult displacement resources, utilization of the MAAC database, resume enhancement, computer classes, mock interviews and all other events offered at the AJC WV. The SCSEP Network will maintain working relationships with all WFWV offices to obtain relevant  employment and training information that pertains to that Region. Sub-grantees will continue to inform enrollees of their specific region’s occupational projections.
• Unemployment Compensation- Unemployment compensation provides temporary financial assistance to workers unemployed through no fault of their own who meet West Virginia's eligibility requirements. 
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)- The TANF program provides temporary financial assistance to low income families. While receiving TANF benefits, recipients will look for employment and move towards achieving self-sufficiency. WV's TANF program is called WV WORKS. The purpose of WV WORKS is to help economically dependent, at-risk families become self-supporting. It is a work-oriented, performance-based, time-limited program that emphasizes employment and personal responsibility.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - SNAP is administered by the WV DHHR and governed by federal law and regulations of the US Department of Agriculture, Food Nutrition Services. SNAP provides monthly benefits to help eligible households buy food. Eligibility to receive benefits is based on household size, income, assets and some household expenses as determined by the federal government.
• National Farmworker Jobs Program- The National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) provides eligible farmworkers and their dependents with the means to reach self-sufficiency through better employment.
• Career and Technical Education (CTE)- Career Technical Education (CTE) programs are changing, evolving and innovating to better serve West Virginia's needs by preparing students to help drive our success and vitality. Further, CTE is creating an educational environment that integrates core academics with real-world relevance. CTE is transforming expectations and making a difference for students, for businesses and industry, for West Virginia and for the global community.
• Indian & Native American Programs- Our purpose is to reduce unemployment among American Indians, traditionally the least serviced and poorest group in the United States.
• Youthbuild- At YouthBuild programs in the United States and across the globe, low-income young people learn construction skills to help build affordable housing and other community assets such as community centers and schools.

Through comprehensive one-stop service delivery, job seekers can find information on and obtain referrals to other partner programs, including the TANF program, Perkins program, vocational rehabilitation, and SNAP E&T. All partners collaborate to better serve West Virginians who use the AJCs by sharing resources, reducing redundancies, and optimizing service delivery. So they can best serve consumers, state and local level staff are kept well informed of the services and other resources available from partner agencies. This communication occurs at the state level, as well as in the AJCs, where daily interaction with partner agency staff occurs. Cross-training of staff is mandatory and results in better service provision to AJC customers while preserving resources for future needs. 

In West Virginia, a state in economic transition, the workforce system is undergoing a maturation process, deepening its engagement, and adjusting to rapidly changing economic conditions. As the state adapts to these changes, its workforce development efforts are evolving to meet the needs of employers and job seekers. Moreover, as West Virginia's workforce system matures, efforts are being made to enhance connectivity with other key stakeholders. This includes closer collaboration with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community-based entities to create a more integrated and comprehensive approach to workforce development.

West Virginia’s WDS partners collectively contribute to the state’s efforts in developing a workforce that is equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic and evolving economy. The state has a historical legacy of hardworking individuals, particularly in industries like coal mining. This work ethic serves as a strong foundation for workforce development activities. West Virginia has been investing in training and education programs to equip its workforce with the skills needed for evolving industries. This includes vocational training, community and technical college (CTC) programs, and partnerships with industry leaders and employers to address specific skill demands. 

In 2022, Governor Jim Justice, with the support of the West Virginia Legislature, created the State Workforce Resiliency Office. This office operates on behalf of the Governor to coordinate workforce development, job training, education, and related programs across numerous state agencies and entities to grow West Virginia’s workforce and to provide more options for West Virginians seeking work. This office advises the Governor on the workforce development landscape across West Virginia and assists in developing policies, plans, and procedures to ensure that state agencies, private partners, and federal programs are effectively utilized for workforce development. 

West Virginia has recently unveiled a No Wrong Door platform to address the skills gap addressed above for individual users with the philosophy that there are “No Wrong Doors” when seeking workforce assistance in West Virginia. The platform helps individuals learn about available services without having to go through a myriad of processes and navigational challenges. It also allows them to search for services in their area and input inquiries that are logged and acted upon. This can help expedite access to services and support. Support organizations can share information, which allows for better coordination of services provided. The No Wrong Door approach and vision, which expands face to face service delivery, is further discussed under the customer service delivery section of this Combined Plan. 

 (B) The Strengths and Weaknesses of Workforce Development Activities

Collaborative workforce activities that support and show strength in West Virginia’s system and a commitment of coordinated resources include:

Ascend WV Program

West Virginia's natural beauty, low cost of living, and quality of life can be attractive factors for skilled workers. Creating a positive living environment contributes to attracting and retaining a talented workforce. The Ascend WV program, a partnership between West Virginia natives Brad D. and Alys Smith, Governor Justice and the departments of Tourism and Economic Development, and West Virginia University, has successfully attracted over 360 new residents to the state. Supported by a $25 million donation from the Smiths, the program focuses on outdoor recreation opportunities to attract and retain skilled workers.

The program offers a unique package to remote workers, including a $12,000 cash relocation incentive paid over two years, one year of free outdoor recreation valued at over $2,500, free co-working space, professional advancement opportunities, and access to outdoor and social programming. The aim is to welcome more than 1,000 remote workers to the state over the next six years. The Ascend WV program is not only attracting new residents, but also fostering a sense of community pride and engagement through service projects that contribute to the state's well-being. Ascend workers moved to West Virginia from thirty-eight states and five countries. Fifty-six percent are renters, and forty-four percent have purchased homes. 

West Virginia Nursing Workforce Expansion Program

In December 2021, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice committed $48 million to aggressively address West Virginia’s nursing workforce shortage through a multi-pronged plan to attract, train, and retain nurses in the Mountain State. Thanks to several education initiatives included in the West Virginia Nursing Expansion Program, an additional 2,200 nursing students could graduate from the state’s nursing schools over the following four years. The Governor’s program supports new care models through education as well as regulation changes that lessen the burden on nurses by eliminating non-nursing tasks. In addition, the expansion program creatively increases nursing ranks by allowing for more externs to fill gaps in nursing assistant care and removing barriers to nursing faculty and advanced practice nurses serving in direct care RN roles. 

The initiative includes several components to achieve program goals:

• The program creates a statewide incentive program for nurses who move to West Virginia to be employed directly by a West Virginia licensed health care provider organization, providing direct care services—including a cash incentive for re-location and a variety of state perks. The Balance WV program (the out of state recruitment program) brought in 57 nurses, 83% (47) of whom are still working in WV. 
• The licensure process for nurses moving into the state is expedited, and the existing 3RNET Recruiting for Retention Academy and other recruitment campaigns are fully utilized for nursing recruitment. 
• Capacity has been expanded to create new nursing education programs at West Virginia’s public colleges and universities (both baccalaureate institutions and the community & technical colleges) and Career Technical Education through the West Virginia Department of Education by providing awards that support LPN and RN programs at all levels. The Early Career Nursing Scholarship program was initiated to better assist expanded pre-licensure RN students. This program has awarded 119 students with funds, totaling just under a million dollars.
• Awards are provided to innovative new programs, especially those that speed time to degree completion. Funding supports facility construction, additional faculty salaries, and other resources needed to expand. 
• The West Virginia Nursing Scholarship Program, which is administered by the West Virginia Center for Nursing and Higher Education Policy Commission, is fully funded. This program provides RN and LPN students with scholarships after the midpoint of their nursing program in exchange for working in the state after graduation. During the 2022-2023 academic year, the WV Nursing Scholarship was able to supply $1,244,750 in funding to 293 nursing students at 32 institutions across the state. For the current academic year, 2023-2024, the WV Nursing Scholarship program has dedicated 1.6 million dollars in funds towards the award. Currently, 224 students have received awards with an additional 244 pending eligibility for later in this academic year.
• A new Nursing Faculty Investment Program has been created, which is administered by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. The program will incentivize master’s- and doctoral-level nurses to pursue careers as instructors at schools of nursing. 22 institutions applied for and received funding through this program, and a total of 335 faculty training sessions were held through the nursing faculty investment grant program.
• A centralized nursing program application for public two- and four-year nursing programs has been deployed. This allows nursing program applicants to complete one application for applying to multiple colleges. Colleges that do not fill all their seats can search for qualified applicants who did not receive previous offers and offer them seats in their programs. Use of a common nursing application has been shown to increase nursing enrollment in other states. 

The Nursing Expansion program showed the following successes in year 1:

• 716 new RN enrollees above normal enrollment for expanded pre-licensure nursing programs.
• 94 new LPN enrollees above normal enrollment for expanded LPN programs.
• A total of 810 new nurses are being trained at expanded programs.

Tourism Works

The tourism industry in West Virginia recorded its highest-ever economic impact last year—bringing in nearly $5 billion in visitor spending. Tourism already supports 44,400 jobs across the state, and 21,000 job openings are projected annually. These projections include 10,000 annual openings for management-level positions, with salaries approaching $60,000.

West Virginia is taking a bold approach by launching Tourism Works, a comprehensive workforce development program. The program led by the West Virginia Department of Tourism—in collaboration with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development, the West Virginia Department of Education, and the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education—will devote $5.1 million dollars to workforce development and training. This initiative is federally funded by the United States Economic Development Administration.

The Tourism Works program supports this anticipated job growth. Through Tourism Works, Governor Justice’s administration shows its commitment to proactively preparing for the industry’s needs by ensuring that West Virginians have the skills to fill these roles and that tourism businesses have the resources to upskill their existing staff. This program launched in 2023.

Initiatives in the Tourism Works program include: 

Train Your Team

• Provides and coordinates customized training and certification programs for new and existing tourism businesses.
• Uses targeted outreach to promote the very successful Learn & Earn workforce program to tourism industry businesses.

Educate Our Communities

• Currently developing a widely accessible online hospitality and tourism course for West Virginians.

Shape Our Future

• Provides tourism education to middle and high school students across the state.
• Establishes career pathways for high school students to begin earning credit toward future degree or certificate programs.
• Creates new degree and certificate programs with our institutions of higher learning.

Grow Your Own - Educator Workforce Pathway

Designed to address West Virginia's critical need for teachers, Grow Your Own Pathway to Teaching programs provide promising high school students an accelerated, funded path for pursuing a career in education. Grow Your Own students take a fast-track into the education field through a combination of dual enrollment/Advanced Placement courses and an accelerated pathway that allows them to graduate with a bachelor's degree in just three years. Designed to provide paid, on-the-job training, the WV Apprenticeship Model provides Grow Your Own students with wage-earning field experiences, preparing them for the teaching career while alleviating financial burdens. Students who have graduated high school and complete the Youth Apprenticeship are certified as a Teacher Apprentice by the U.S. Department of Labor. For the 2023-2024 school year, the program comprises 345 students and 33 actively participating counties. These students are still in high school, so the impact on the workforce will be more evident in the next three to four years.  This collaborative efforts includes WV Department of Education, WFWV, WV Higher Education Policy Commission and Higher Education Institutions, and local WDBs. 

Learn & Earn

This program is the leading workforce development, economic development, and educational partnership in the Mountain State. Learn & Earn connects college students with employers so they can take technical courses while gaining paid work experience. The student pay is shared by the company and the college, and students receive at least $10 per hour to work in the field they are studying. The program includes partners from Economic Development, WVCTCs, and WFWV.  Key factors for the program include:

• Students are enrolled in 1- or 2-year degree programs.
• Co-op experience must pay no less than $10/hour.
• Employer gains a highly qualified employee and a future skilled labor pool.
• Students earn valuable on-the-job training while attending school.
• Employers and college split program costs 50/50. 

Rapid Response Advance Grant

This grant is awarded to colleges that partner with industries on projects to address the state's workforce needs, including pre-employment programs, pre-preparation programs, skills upgrades, new and expanding companies, and job retention.

West Virginia Invests

WV Invests, formerly known as the West Virginia Invests Grant Program, is a state initiative aimed at providing affordable pathways for West Virginians to obtain the skills and credentials necessary to secure high-demand jobs, which both fulfills workforce development needs and promotes economic growth within the state. WV Invests offers tuition-free education and training for West Virginia residents pursuing certificates or associate degrees in specific high-demand fields, including healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, construction, and other industries identified as critical to the state's economy. WV Invests is available at participating public institutions, including CTCs, as well as eligible private training providers. Recipients must meet certain academic and progress requirements, such as maintaining a minimum GPA and completing a certain number of credit hours each semester, to maintain eligibility for tuition assistance. 

West Virginia Dual Enrollment Program

In 2023, The West Virginia Legislature Gov. Jim Justice established West Virginia’s first statewide dual enrollment program to allow more students to take college courses in high school. West Virginia’s higher education system is developing a four-year pilot program to begin in fall 2024, supporting up to an estimated 10,000 students per year. Through this program, high school students can enroll at West Virginia’s public CTCs and four-year institutions to take courses in certain designated career pathways—such as health care, information technology, advanced manufacturing, construction, engineering, education, and agriculture—that meet workforce needs identified by the West Virginia Department of Commerce. The state’s Higher Education Policy Commission and Community and Technical College System will administer this program, adding to the more than $100 million in state-sponsored financial aid offered each year through the West Virginia Invests program, the state’s tuition-free community college program, the merit-based Promise Scholarship, and the needs-based Higher Education Grant Program, among others.

Jobs & Hope West Virginia

Jobs & Hope West Virginia is a state funded Governor Justice initiative.  The program is a comprehensive workforce development initiative launched by the state of West Virginia to provide individuals in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) with opportunities to reenter the workforce and lead successful, productive lives. The program seeks to address both the addiction and employment barriers faced by individuals in recovery, promoting long-term recovery and stability.  The program incorporates integration of services, peer recovery support, educational opportunities, employment assistance and extensive one on one case management through statewide partnerships.  Since 2019 the program has graduated over 525 participants, completed 33 expungements, completed 1,811 driver’s license restorations, and assisted 1,326 individuals to exit SNAP benefits. 

An analysis of core programs, included combined partner programs and One-Stop delivery system partners strengths and weaknesses are detailed below.

WIOA Title I Adult

Strengths:

·       Comprehensive Services: West Virginia's Title I Adult program is commended for offering a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of adult learners. This flexibility allows the program to tailor support to individual participants, addressing specific barriers to employment.

·       Tailored Support: The ability to offer tailored support is a key strength, helping participants overcome obstacles and achieve career employment. This customized approach is essential in addressing the complex needs of adult learners.

·       Imperative for Workforce Engagement: The statement notes that West Virginia has a relatively small percentage of adults in the labor force, making comprehensive support for adult learners crucial. This focus on adult services can help boost labor force participation, contributing to the state's economic growth.

Weaknesses:

·       Funding Constraints: The Title I Adult program may face funding and resource limitations, which can impact the availability of services and support. Insufficient funding could result in reduced capacity to serve all eligible individuals or a narrower range of services.

·       Retention and Completion Rates: A significant challenge is retaining participants in training programs and supporting them through completion. Factors like competing priorities, personal barriers, and insufficient support services can lead to lower retention rates, affecting participants' ability to achieve their education and career goals.

·       Impact of Personal Barriers: Adult learners often face personal barriers, such as family responsibilities, financial constraints, or transportation issues, which can make it challenging to complete training programs. Addressing these barriers requires comprehensive support services, which may be difficult to provide with limited resources.

West Virginia's Title I Adult program has a strong foundation, with a comprehensive approach to serving adult learners. However, funding constraints and personal barriers can limit the program's ability to deliver consistent support and achieve high retention and completion rates. Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort to secure funding, develop innovative support services, and enhance engagement with adult learners to ensure they have the resources needed to succeed in their education and career goals.

WIOA Title I Dislocated Worker

Strengths:

·       Rapid Response Capability: A significant strength of the Dislocated Worker program in West Virginia is its ability to form partnerships quickly through rapid response services. This speed is crucial in providing timely support to workers who have lost their jobs, minimizing the gap between employment and reemployment.

·       Coordination with Local Workforce Development Boards (LWDBs): The joint rapid response team approach between the State Dislocated Worker Services Unit and the LWDB demonstrates effective coordination. This collaborative strategy allows for efficient outreach to employers and dislocated workers, facilitating quicker response times and more comprehensive support.

·       Priority Status for Dislocated Workers: Dislocated workers receive priority in the Workforce Development System (WDS), ensuring that they have access to services and resources to support their transition to new employment.

Weaknesses:

·       Barriers to Access: Some eligible individuals may face obstacles in accessing Dislocated Worker Program services. These barriers could include a lack of awareness about available resources, geographic isolation, transportation challenges, or language barriers. Addressing these issues is critical to ensuring equitable access to services.

·       Systemic Barriers to Employment: Dislocated workers may encounter broader systemic barriers that affect their ability to secure new employment. These can include the lack of affordable childcare, transportation issues, or inadequate access to healthcare. Such systemic barriers can undermine the program's effectiveness, especially if participants struggle to meet basic needs while seeking new jobs.

·       Resource Constraints: The program's ability to offer supportive services, such as transportation assistance or childcare support, may be limited by funding constraints or resource availability. Insufficient funding can restrict the range and quality of services, impacting the program's overall effectiveness.

The rapid response capability and collaborative approach of West Virginia's Dislocated Worker program are key strengths, providing prompt support to workers who have lost their jobs. However, the program faces significant challenges, including barriers to access, systemic issues affecting reemployment, and potential funding constraints. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, adequate funding, and expanded partnerships to ensure that dislocated workers receive the support they need to successfully transition to new employment opportunities.

WIOA Title I Youth

Strengths:

·       Valuable Skill Development and Career Guidance: WIOA youth programs in West Virginia excel in providing skill development and career guidance. These programs offer training in technical skills, education, and employment readiness, helping youth transition into the workforce.

·       Partnerships with Local Employers: By fostering partnerships with local employers, these programs create pathways for employment and internships. These partnerships ensure that youth programs align with regional labor market needs, enhancing job placement rates.

·       Holistic Approach and Customization: WIOA youth programs adopt a holistic approach, addressing multiple barriers faced by youth. They offer support services, mentorship, and educational resources. Customization allows the programs to meet unique regional needs, providing tailored support to participants.

Weaknesses:

·       Limited Funding: Funding constraints can limit the scope and reach of WIOA youth programs. Insufficient resources might reduce the availability of training and support services, impacting the overall effectiveness of the programs.

·       Challenges in Coordination: Coordination among various agencies can be challenging, leading to inefficiencies and fragmented service delivery. Effective coordination is crucial to ensuring comprehensive support for youth participants.

·       Inadequate Emphasis on Soft Skills: While technical skills are crucial, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally important. A lack of emphasis on these skills may hinder youth employability and career growth.

·       Potential Mismatches with Local Labor Market: Inconsistencies between program offerings and local labor market demands can lead to mismatches. This discrepancy can reduce the effectiveness of training and job placement efforts.

·       Policy Inconsistencies Across Regions: Disparities in policies and resources across different regions may lead to unequal access to services and opportunities. This inconsistency could create barriers for youth in underserved areas.

·       Barriers to Participation: Issues like internet accessibility and transportation pose significant challenges, especially in rural areas of West Virginia. These barriers can limit youth program participation and reduce access to training and employment opportunities.

Recommendations:

·      Maximize Resources and Funding: The State of West Virginia is working towards efficient use of resources and funding.  Addressing funding mechanisms is critical to expanding program reach and providing comprehensive services. Integrated services and expanded referral processes among partners can maximize resources to improve training, support services, and employment opportunities.  

·       Improved Coordination Among Agencies: Streamlining coordination among various agencies can enhance efficiency and ensure a cohesive approach to supporting youth. Better collaboration can lead to more integrated service delivery.

·       Enhanced Focus on Soft Skills: Programs should emphasize soft skills development, incorporating communication, teamwork, and other essential skills into training programs to boost employability.

·       Addressing Transportation and Internet Accessibility: Innovative solutions, such as mobile training units and partnerships with local transportation providers, can help overcome transportation challenges. Expanding internet access through community centers or public facilities can reduce the digital divide.

·       Ensuring Policy Consistency and Equitable Access: Standardizing policies and ensuring equitable access across regions can create a more level playing field for all participants. This approach can reduce disparities and foster greater inclusivity.

WIOA Title II Adult Education

Strengths:

·       Accessibility: West Virginia's adult education system provides accessibility to adults seeking to improve their skills. The system accommodates a wide range of learning needs, offering programs for literacy, numeracy, English language proficiency, and workforce training.

·       Tailored Programs: Programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of adult learners, including those with disabilities, non-native English speakers, and individuals seeking career advancement. This flexibility allows adults to pursue education regardless of their background or skill level.

·       Flexible Learning Options: The system offers flexible learning options such as evening classes, online courses, or hybrid models. This adaptability is crucial for adults with busy schedules, allowing them to balance work, family, and education.

·       Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaboration with community organizations, employers, and local agencies strengthens the adult education system. These partnerships provide additional support, resources, and opportunities for learners, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the programs.

·       Support Services: Adult education programs in West Virginia offer support services like counseling, tutoring, career guidance, and financial aid. These services help adult learners overcome barriers and stay on track to achieve their educational and career goals.

Weaknesses:

·       Lack of Awareness: A significant weakness is that many adults may not be aware of the availability of adult education programs, leading to underutilization of services. This lack of awareness can limit participation and impede efforts to expand the reach of adult education.

·       Retention and Completion Challenges: Adult learners may struggle with staying enrolled and completing programs due to competing priorities like work, family responsibilities, or lack of motivation. These challenges can lead to lower completion rates, impacting overall program success.

·       Infrastructure Limitations: Insufficient infrastructure, such as outdated technology or lack of internet access, can hinder the delivery of high-quality education. This limitation is especially concerning in rural areas, where access to technology and reliable internet may be limited.

Recommendations:

·       Increased Awareness and Outreach: To address the lack of awareness, the adult education system should engage in targeted outreach and marketing campaigns to inform potential learners about available programs and services.

·       Enhanced Support Services for Retention: Providing additional support services, such as mentorship programs and flexible scheduling, can help address retention challenges. By offering more personalized support, adult education programs can increase completion rates.

·       Investment in Infrastructure: To overcome infrastructure limitations, investments should be made to modernize technology and expand internet access. This approach can improve the quality and reach of adult education programs, especially in rural areas.

·       Strengthened Collaboration: Continued collaboration with community organizations, employers, and local agencies can provide a broader range of resources and support for adult learners. These partnerships can help bridge gaps in services and increase the impact of adult education programs.

Overall, West Virginia's adult education system has notable strengths in terms of accessibility, flexibility, and supportive services. However, addressing weaknesses related to awareness, retention, and infrastructure is essential for expanding the system's reach and ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for adult learners across the state.

WIOA Title III Wagner-Peyser

Strengths:

·       Early-Intervention Approach: WFWV's early-intervention approach involves dual enrollment for unemployment compensation recipients from day one for Wagner-Peyser reemployment services. This proactive strategy ensures that claimants receive immediate support to reenter the workforce, which can reduce the duration of unemployment and facilitate a quicker transition to new employment.

·       Comprehensive Orientation: By providing an orientation to all available One-Stop services, WFWV helps claimants understand the full range of resources at their disposal. This comprehensive introduction can encourage claimants to utilize the services available to them.

·       Employer-Focused Services: The Wagner-Peyser program offers a range of services to employers, including job posting assistance, recruitment events, and workforce training programs. This focus on employer needs facilitates stronger partnerships and helps bridge the gap between employers and job seekers.

·       Employer Collaboration: Program staff work closely with employers to understand their hiring needs, ensuring that the recruitment process is aligned with employer expectations. This collaboration helps match qualified candidates with available job opportunities.

Weaknesses:

·       Fragmentation of Services: Despite efforts to coordinate with other workforce development partners, there are challenges in achieving seamless service integration. Fragmentation across different agencies and programs can lead to confusion for job seekers and employers, potentially hindering access to critical services.

·       Complexity and Redundancy: Fragmentation can lead to overlapping services and redundant processes, making it difficult for job seekers and employers to navigate the system. This complexity can create barriers to accessing the right resources and prolong the job search process.

·       Service Integration and Coordination: Effective integration of services across various workforce development partners is crucial for providing a seamless experience for job seekers and employers. Inconsistent communication and coordination among different agencies may undermine these efforts, leading to inefficiencies and confusion.

Recommendations:

·       Streamline Service Integration: WFWV should focus on improving coordination among different agencies and programs to minimize fragmentation. This can be achieved by centralizing key services, simplifying processes, and ensuring clear communication across all partners.

·       Enhanced Communication with Job Seekers and Employers: Providing clear and consistent information to job seekers and employers can reduce confusion and improve service utilization. WFWV can develop user-friendly guides and online resources to help stakeholders navigate the system.

·       Continuous Collaboration with Employers: Strengthening partnerships with employers can lead to better alignment of workforce services with employer needs. This ongoing collaboration can facilitate the recruitment of qualified candidates and improve job placement outcomes.

·       Regular Program Evaluation: Conducting regular evaluations of the Wagner-Peyser program and other workforce development initiatives can help identify areas of improvement and address fragmentation issues. By analyzing feedback from job seekers, employers, and program staff, WFWV can make informed decisions to enhance service integration and coordination.

WFWV's early-intervention approach and collaboration with employers are strengths that support reemployment and job matching. However, addressing fragmentation and improving service integration will be essential to provide a seamless experience for job seekers and employers, ensuring that the workforce development system is efficient and accessible.

WIOA Title IV Vocational Rehabilitation

Strengths:

·       Expertise of WVDRS Staff: The program's strength lies in the expertise of its vocational rehabilitation counselors and employment specialists. These professionals provide comprehensive support to individuals with disabilities to help them gain, maintain, or advance in employment. Their role is crucial in guiding clients through various stages of vocational rehabilitation.

·       Wide Range of Services and Partnerships: WVDRS collaborates with various partners, including high schools, career technical education centers, community colleges, and WorkForce WV, to offer a wide range of services to individuals with disabilities. This partnership ensures that clients receive tailored support and training for in-demand jobs, facilitating smoother transitions into the workforce.

·       Accessibility and Outreach: WVDRS maintains offices across the state, including itinerant locations at American Job Centers (AJCs), public and private colleges, high schools, and other community locations. This distribution helps ensure coverage and accessibility, even in rural areas of West Virginia.

·       Support for Employers: The program provides recruitment, placement, and retention services to businesses, along with training and technical assistance. This support encourages employers to include or retain people with disabilities in their workforce, promoting greater inclusivity.

·       Role in Labor Force Participation: By providing individualized services to over 10,000 individuals in 2023 (as of February 2024), WVDRS plays a critical role in increasing the state's labor force participation rate. This contribution is significant in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve intermediate and long-term employment goals.

Weaknesses:

·       Finite Resources: The finite human and fiscal resources to serve the estimated 179,541 individuals with disabilities between the ages of 18-64 in the state could lead to unmet needs. With such a large potential population, WVDRS might not be able to reach everyone who could benefit from its services.

·       Inadequate Participation in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): While WVDRS has a vocational rehabilitation counselor assigned to each high school and postsecondary institution, the agency cannot fully participate in each IEP. This limitation could reduce the program's ability to educate students, parents, and school staff about the VR program, impacting early intervention efforts.

·       Reliance on Partner Agencies: WVDRS relies on partner agencies to assist with outreach and referrals to all potentially eligible individuals with disabilities. This reliance, while helpful, could lead to inconsistencies in outreach and create disparities in access and understanding of WVDRS services across the state.

·       Challenges in Reaching All Eligible Individuals: Given the vast number of individuals potentially eligible for VR services, WVDRS might struggle to ensure that all individuals in the state have equal access to its programs. This challenge is compounded by the wide distribution of the state's population and the difficulties in maintaining consistent communication.

Recommendations:

·       Resource Optimization: To address finite resources, WVDRS could optimize its existing resources and seek additional funding to expand its capacity to serve more individuals with disabilities.

·       Improved IEP Participation: WVDRS could explore ways to increase participation in IEPs, potentially through better resource allocation or innovative outreach methods. This could strengthen early intervention and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

·       Innovative Solutions for Outreach: To overcome the challenge of reaching all eligible individuals, WVDRS could continue to implement innovative outreach solutions, such as digital campaigns, mobile VR services, or expanded collaboration with community organizations.

In summary, West Virginia's Vocational Rehabilitation program demonstrates considerable strengths in expertise, service variety, accessibility, and collaboration.  Addressing resource constraints, improving outreach, and ensuring equitable access will be critical to expanding the program's impact and supporting a greater number of individuals with disabilities.

Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)

Strengths:

·       Tailored Training for Affected Workers: A key strength of the TAA program is its ability to provide training that is specifically designed to meet the needs of workers who have lost their jobs due to trade-related reasons. This tailored approach helps prepare workers for employment in high-demand industries or occupations, enhancing their reemployment prospects.

·       Comprehensive Support Services: In addition to training, the TAA program offers a range of support services, including counseling, job search assistance, and financial support for reemployment. These services help affected workers navigate the transition from job loss to reemployment, providing a safety net during a challenging time.

·       Focus on High-Demand Industries: The program's focus on high-demand industries or occupations ensures that workers are trained in skills that are relevant to the current job market. This alignment with market demand increases the chances of successful reemployment and long-term career growth.

·       Flexibility in Training Options: TAA provides flexibility in terms of training options, allowing workers to pursue education, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or other forms of skill development. This flexibility accommodates different learning preferences and career goals.

Weaknesses:

·       Barriers to Accessing Training Opportunities: Despite funding for job training and education programs, some trade-affected workers may face barriers in accessing training. These barriers can stem from limited availability of relevant programs, geographic constraints, or other logistical challenges. For example, rural areas may have fewer training facilities, limiting access to resources.

·       Complex Eligibility Criteria: The eligibility criteria for TAA can be complex, potentially excluding certain workers who are affected by trade-related job loss but do not meet specific requirements. The certification process to determine whether a job loss is trade-related can be lengthy and complicated, causing delays in accessing TAA benefits.

·       Exclusion of Certain Workers: The eligibility criteria may exclude workers who are affected by trade-related job loss but do not work for a TAA-certified firm. This exclusion creates gaps in coverage and may leave some workers without access to the support they need for reemployment.

Recommendations:

·       Simplification of Eligibility Criteria: To address the complexity of eligibility, efforts should be made to simplify the certification process and broaden the criteria to include more workers affected by trade-related job loss. This change could increase access to TAA benefits and reduce delays in providing support.

·       Improved Accessibility of Training Programs: To overcome geographic constraints and limited program availability, the TAA program could explore innovative solutions such as online training, mobile training units, or partnerships with community colleges and technical schools to expand training options in underserved areas.

·       Enhanced Outreach and Communication: TAA should strengthen outreach efforts to ensure that affected workers are aware of their eligibility and the support services available to them. Clear communication about the eligibility criteria and the benefits of the program can help reduce confusion and increase participation.

·       Collaboration with Employers and Local Agencies: Collaborating with employers and local agencies can help identify workers who might be eligible for TAA and facilitate the certification process. This collaboration can also help tailor training programs to meet the specific needs of local industries and employers.

Overall, the TAA program's tailored training and comprehensive support services are key strengths in helping trade-affected workers transition to new employment. However, addressing barriers to accessing training opportunities, simplifying eligibility criteria, and improving outreach and communication are crucial for ensuring that the program effectively serves those in need. By focusing on these areas, TAA can better support workers through trade-related job transitions and contribute to their successful reemployment in high-demand industries.

Jobs for Veterans State Grant (LVER/DVOP)

Strengths:

·       Targeted Assistance for Veterans: One of the key strengths of the JVSG program is its focus on providing assistance tailored to the unique needs of veterans. This approach helps address challenges that veterans may face, which general employment programs might not be equipped to handle.

·       Specialized Staff and Priority of Service: The program employs specialized staff such as Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists and Local Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERs) who are trained to understand and address veterans' specific needs. Veterans also receive priority of service in federally funded employment and training programs, ensuring timely assistance over non-veteran participants.

·       Comprehensive Support Services: JVSG offers a wide range of services, including career counseling, resume preparation, job search assistance, and follow-up services once veterans find employment. This comprehensive approach helps veterans throughout their job search and after they start a new role, facilitating successful transitions to civilian employment.

·       Collaboration with Other Programs: The program collaborates with other federal, state, and local programs to leverage resources and provide comprehensive support to veterans, including those facing significant barriers to employment. This collaborative approach increases the range of services available to veterans and improves the program's reach.

Weaknesses:

·       Variability in Quality and Availability of Partner Services: Despite the collaborative approach, there is variability in the quality and availability of partner services across different locations. This inconsistency can affect the level of support veterans receive, leading to unequal access to resources and opportunities.

·       Underutilization of the Program: Underutilization can occur due to veterans' lack of awareness of the program or difficulty accessing services, especially for those with geographical constraints, transportation issues, or homelessness. These factors can prevent veterans from benefiting fully from the program's offerings.

·       Complexity of Eligibility Criteria: The complexity of eligibility criteria for certain program services may pose challenges for veterans seeking assistance. This complexity can lead to confusion, delays, or exclusion from specific services, reducing the program's effectiveness in reaching all eligible veterans.

Recommendations:

·       Standardization of Services Across Locations: To address variability, JVSG should work towards standardizing services across different locations to ensure consistent support for veterans. This standardization could involve clear guidelines, best practices, and quality assurance measures to maintain high service quality.

·       Enhanced Outreach and Awareness Campaigns: To tackle underutilization, JVSG should focus on outreach and awareness campaigns targeting veterans. These campaigns can use various communication channels to inform veterans about the program and encourage participation.

·       Simplification of Eligibility Criteria: Simplifying the eligibility criteria for certain program services can improve access and reduce confusion. JVSG could review its criteria to identify areas for simplification and implement user-friendly processes to streamline access to services.

·       Continued Collaboration with Partners: Maintaining and expanding collaboration with other federal, state, and local programs is crucial for providing comprehensive support to veterans. JVSG could strengthen these partnerships and explore innovative ways to leverage resources and improve outreach.

The JVSG program's targeted assistance, specialized staff, comprehensive support services, and collaborative approach are key strengths in addressing veterans' employment challenges. However, addressing the variability in service quality, underutilization due to lack of awareness, and the complexity of eligibility criteria is essential to enhance the program's impact. By focusing on standardization, improved outreach, simplified eligibility, and continued collaboration with partners, JVSG can better support veterans in West Virginia, ensuring they receive the resources and assistance needed for successful employment transitions.

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)

Strengths:

·       Holistic Approach to Poverty: CSBG programs take a comprehensive approach to addressing poverty, focusing on both immediate needs (food, shelter) and long-term solutions (education, employment, financial stability). This strategy helps individuals and families move towards self-sufficiency and economic independence.

·       Flexibility and Adaptability: The flexibility in CSBG programs allows individual Community Action Agencies (CAAs) to allocate resources efficiently and tailor services to meet unique local challenges. This adaptability ensures that CSBG programs can address a wide range of needs, providing effective solutions for each community.

·       Encouragement of Collaboration: At a macro level, CSBG programs foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community leaders. This collaboration enhances the reach and impact of CSBG initiatives by pooling resources and coordinating efforts.

·       Emergency Assistance and Rapid Response: On a micro level, CSBG funds can be used to provide emergency assistance to individuals and families facing crisis situations, such as natural disasters, unemployment, or sudden illness. This rapid response capability allows CAAs to act quickly in times of hardship, offering essential support to those in need.

Weaknesses:

·       Insufficient Funding: A significant weakness of CSBG programs is that funding may not be sufficient to meet the needs of all eligible individuals and families in West Virginia. This limitation constrains the scope and reach of services, leaving some vulnerable populations underserved.

·       Fragmentation and Duplication of Services: Fragmentation and duplication among different agencies and programs can undermine the efficiency and effectiveness of CSBG initiatives. Lack of coordination and communication among service providers may lead to inefficiencies, gaps in coverage, and confusion for clients seeking assistance.

·       Capacity Constraints: Some CAAs in West Virginia face capacity constraints, including staffing shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and limited organizational resources. These constraints can hinder the delivery of high-quality services and limit the ability of CAAs to respond effectively to community needs.

Recommendations:

·       Secure Stable Funding Sources: To ensure long-term sustainability, CSBG programs in West Virginia should focus on securing stable funding sources. Diversifying funding and exploring new partnerships can help mitigate funding limitations and ensure the continuity of services.

·       Improve Coordination and Communication: Addressing fragmentation and duplication requires improved coordination and communication among different agencies and programs. This effort can reduce inefficiencies and ensure that clients receive seamless services.

·       Strengthen Capacity and Infrastructure: To overcome capacity constraints, CAAs should invest in staffing, infrastructure, and organizational resources. These investments can enhance service quality and enable CAAs to meet community needs more effectively.

CSBG programs in West Virginia offer a holistic approach to addressing poverty and provide valuable resources to individuals and families. However, funding constraints, service fragmentation, and capacity limitations pose challenges to the program's effectiveness. By focusing on securing stable funding, improving coordination, strengthening capacity, and enhancing community engagement, CSBG programs can overcome these weaknesses and continue to play a vital role in supporting those in need and promoting economic self-sufficiency.

Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP)

Strengths:

·       Targeted Demographic Approach: SCSEP's key strength is its focus on older adults, a demographic that often faces unique barriers to employment, such as age discrimination, lack of modern skills, or fear of re-entering the workforce. This focus allows the program to address the specific needs of older workers and support them in gaining employment.

·       Community Engagement and Social Impact: By engaging older adults in part-time positions at nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and other community-based entities, SCSEP contributes to addressing important social needs. This approach not only helps older workers gain experience and skills but also strengthens community connections, leading to broader societal benefits.

·       Computer Literacy Training: Recognizing the importance of computer literacy in today's workforce, SCSEP offers training in this area through various entities like American Job Centers (AJCs), local community colleges, and public libraries. This initiative helps older adults develop critical skills to remain competitive in the job market.

·       Innovative Programs to Reduce Technophobia: SCSEP has implemented the Senior Evolve program, which provides iPads to eligible participants to help decrease technophobia and improve computer skills. This innovative approach addresses a significant barrier for many older adults and enhances their confidence in using technology.

Weaknesses:

·       Impact of Supplemental Benefits on Employment: A major weakness is the potential impact on participants' benefits, such as supplemental insurance, subsidized housing, or Social Security Benefits. Many older adults fear losing or having these benefits adjusted if they gain employment, leading to reluctance to seek work at the end of the SCSEP program. This fear undermines the program's objective of helping participants transition to permanent employment.

·       Low Transition to Permanent Employment: Because of the concerns surrounding benefits, the likelihood of participants obtaining employment upon completing the program is slim. This issue represents a significant barrier to SCSEP's success, as the ultimate goal is to help older adults gain permanent employment and achieve financial stability.

Recommendations:

·       Addressing Benefit Concerns: SCSEP should work to address concerns about the impact of employment on participants' benefits. This effort could involve providing detailed information about how income from employment affects supplemental insurance, subsidized housing, and Social Security Benefits, aiming to reassure participants and reduce reluctance.

·       Promote Transitional Opportunities: SCSEP could develop partnerships with local employers to create transitional employment opportunities for program participants. This approach could include internships, apprenticeships, or other programs that allow participants to gradually enter the workforce without immediate risk to their benefits.

·       Enhanced Counseling and Support: Offering counseling services focused on explaining benefits and employment can help participants understand their options and make informed decisions. SCSEP could work with experts in public benefits to ensure participants receive accurate and clear information.

·       Strengthen Community Partnerships: To increase the chances of participants finding permanent employment, SCSEP should strengthen partnerships with local businesses and organizations. By engaging with employers, the program can create more opportunities for participants and reduce the barriers they face in transitioning to permanent roles.

West Virginia's SCSEP program has a strong focus on older adults, providing them with opportunities to engage in meaningful employment while addressing social needs. The program's computer literacy training and innovative initiatives like Senior Evolve contribute to its success. However, the fear of losing benefits and low transition to permanent employment are significant weaknesses. Addressing these issues through enhanced support, clearer communication about benefits, and strengthened community partnerships can help SCSEP achieve its goals and better serve its participants.

Unemployment Compensation

Strengths:

·       Accessibility of Services: West Virginia’s unemployment insurance program offers services through multiple channels—online, over the phone, and in-person at WorkForce West Virginia's (WFWV) seventeen local offices. This multi-channel approach provides flexibility for those who have lost their jobs or experienced reduced work, ensuring that they can access the support they need in a manner that suits their preferences and circumstances.

·       Trained Staff: WFWV’s local office and Connect Center staff are trained in both unemployment and employment services, allowing them to assist clients throughout the process, from applying for benefits to transitioning back to work. This integrated approach helps streamline the experience for those seeking assistance.

·       Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) Program: The RESEA program, aimed at unemployment claimants most likely to exhaust their benefits, has improved by adding dedicated RESEA program staff, providing self-scheduling options for participants, and enhancing virtual service delivery. These improvements can increase participation and make the program more effective in helping claimants find new employment.

·       Implementation of USDOL Tiger Team Recommendations: WFWV is implementing recommendations from the U.S. Department of Labor's (USDOL) Tiger Team initiative to promote equitable access, ensure timely payment of benefits, reduce backlogs, and prevent and detect fraudulent activity. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the unemployment insurance program and addressing key challenges.

Weaknesses:

·       Outdated Technology Infrastructure: The legacy mainframe system used for unemployment benefits and tax is approximately 40 years old. This outdated system presents significant challenges, impacting service delivery due to the difficulty of implementing changes and scaling to meet new program requirements. The inflexibility of this system can lead to delays and complications, affecting the efficiency and effectiveness of the unemployment insurance program.

Recommendations:

·       Modernization of Technology Infrastructure: The most pressing need is to modernize the technology infrastructure. This upgrade would improve service delivery, facilitate the implementation of changes, and enable scalability to meet future demands. A modern system would also allow for better integration with other programs and reduce the risk of errors or fraud.

·       Continued Improvement in Service Delivery: Building on the improvements in the RESEA program, WFWV should continue to explore innovative approaches to make services more accessible and efficient. This effort could include expanding virtual services, enhancing self-service options, and improving customer support.

·       Enhance Fraud Detection and Prevention: With the increased risk of fraud in unemployment insurance programs, WFWV should focus on strengthening fraud detection and prevention measures. This effort can be achieved through the use of advanced analytics, data sharing with other agencies, and ongoing staff training.

West Virginia's unemployment insurance program demonstrates strengths in terms of accessibility and staff training, with multiple service delivery channels to assist those who have lost their jobs. The program's RESEA improvements and implementation of USDOL recommendations indicate a commitment to enhancing service quality. However, the outdated legacy mainframe system poses significant challenges, affecting service delivery and scalability. Addressing this weakness through modernization, continued service improvement, and enhanced fraud prevention can help the program better meet the needs of unemployed workers and maintain program integrity.

Other programs identified in section A are not included in this combined plan.

 Collaborative Workforce Development Challenges and Opportunities for Improvement

In June 2021, by Executive Order, Governor Justice established the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Aligning the Roles and Missions of the State Community and Technical College System and WDS to clear the hurdles West Virginians too often face when trying to enter the workforce. Gov. Justice explained, “I’ve said many times that we need to do everything in our power to create more and more opportunities to educate and train the hard-working, dedicated West Virginians who make up our workforce. By creating this Blue Ribbon Task Force, we’ll have some of our State’s brightest minds all pulling the rope together so that, as more and more businesses move into West Virginia, our people will be ready to fill the numerous high-paying job opportunities that will become available.”

The Blue Ribbon Task Force identified several weaknesses within the WDS in a final report to the Governor, which included the following recommendations that partners are responding to:

Make it easier for citizens to be successful:

• Create a common application to make it easier for citizens to enroll in services.
• Set up a workgroup to engineer case management referral training support infrastructure.
• Expand case management to include knowledge of all workforce programs.
• Locate several services in one location.

Get State Agencies on the same page:

• Develop a combined WIOA strategic plan.
• Establish shared metrics and goals for agencies that align with state interests.
• Establish a strong state workforce development board (WDB) that meets regularly and creates a sense of accountability to the state.

Eliminate duplication:

• Develop a workgroup of agencies to assess duplicative expenditures and other budgetary inefficiencies.
• Conduct asset mapping, including a real estate review and examination of shared location expenses.

Outreach to business and industry:

• Create incentives for employers to engage with the state and its partners.
• Adopt best practices from other states and organizations, potentially including development of a West Virginia employer engagement toolkit.
• Prioritize strategic communications with employers.

The Workforce Resiliency Office has been charged to develop strategic improvements to modernize West Virginia’s WDS utilizing the issue areas identified by the Blue Ribbon Taskforce. Improvements undertaken in the past year include:

• Reshaping the West Virginia WDB to reflect evolving industry sectors through employer and community-based organization representation.
• Conducting a thorough policy review and implementing policies and procedures to guide the work of system partners while engaging the appropriate state agencies in coordinated and streamlined policies and practices.
• Implementing the previously mentioned No Wrong Door referral system.
• Identifying ways to better braid funding, including discretionary investments through IIJA and IRA funds provided to West Virginia agencies and organizations.
• Providing training and technical assistance to state and local system partners and stakeholders, including MOU development and infrastructure agreements, collaborative case management, and implementing the one-stop common identifier.

Underlying all of West Virginia’s workforce development efforts is the persistent problem of West Virginia's labor force participation rate (LFPR), which is the lowest in the nation. Factors such as an aging population, disability rates, and limited job opportunities in certain regions contribute to this lower participation rate. Much of the state’s population resides in rural areas, where access to education, training, and employment opportunities may be limited. Infrastructure constraints, including transportation and broadband access, exacerbate these challenges and hinder workforce participation and economic development. While efforts are underway to strengthen the state's workforce development infrastructure, there may be gaps in service delivery, coordination, and accessibility, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Investing in WDSs and partnerships is crucial to addressing these gaps and ensuring all residents have access to quality education and training opportunities.

While efforts to modernize West Virginia’s WDS continue and work is underway for deepening partner engagement, there are still some structural issues stemming from a slow adaptation to new economic realities. One structural issue is the lag in transitioning from traditional industries to new economic sectors. West Virginia has historically relied on industries like coal mining and manufacturing, which have faced significant challenges in recent years due to market shifts and technological advancements. Additionally, the state's geographical and socioeconomic factors contribute to structural challenges in workforce development. Rural areas often face limited access to education and training resources, exacerbating disparities in skill development and employment opportunities. By addressing these challenges and fostering greater collaboration among stakeholders, West Virginia can better position itself to adapt to new economic realities, promote innovation, and create opportunities for sustainable economic and workforce growth.

 C. State Workforce Development Capacity

Locations

West Virginia’s WDS provides coverage for all 55 counties of the State. Workforce development services are provided from over 100 locations, with higher concentrations in more densely populated areas.

West Virginia has seven LWDBs. Each region has one AJC office location for a total of seven AJCs across the state. These centers provide easy access to employment services, such as education and training for workers, and information for economic developers. In addition to the seven AJCs, services are provided to workforce customers through 18 affiliate sites statewide. Each affiliate location provides at least one public computer with Internet to provide an access point to all combined partner services. The AJCs support West Virginia businesses by offering services including hosting job fairs, posting jobs, screening potential workers, and providing training services at no cost to businesses and workers.

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) provides vocational rehabilitation services statewide through 26 local office locations, which includes 6 offices co-located with a combined partner. Additionally, DRS has five itinerant offices within the regional AJC or affiliate office locations. 

The West Virginia Department of Human Resources (DoHS) provides SNAP and TANF services in 54 out of 55 counties. DoHS currently provides services to residents in Brooke County through the Hancock County office location. Information on services and individual referrals are conducted through AJCs and affiliate office sites statewide. 

The West Virginia Department of Education Office of Adult Education operates 69 classrooms statewide (75 if you include the stand-alone SPOKES classrooms). Of that total, eight are co-located in a regional AJC, eight are co-located on a CTC campus, six are co-located in a public library, 21 are co-located within a state K12 facility, and the remainder are located in a stand-alone facility. Regional AJCs provide access to information on services and individual partner referrals through the regional AJC process.

The West Virginia Department of Economic Development, CSBG Division, has 16 CAAs Agencies statewide which provides services through various CSBG grant services to all 55 West Virginia counties. Regional AJCs provide access to information on services and individual partner referrals through regional AJCs. Additionally, itinerant on-site locations are organized within the AJCs and affiliate offices by the individual CAAs. 

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) has two National Grantee office locations. The West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services is located in Charleston. The second National Grantee office is the National Council on Aging (NCOA), located in Wheeling. SCSEP National Grantees continue to provide services at both office locations and at regional AJC and affiliate site locations.

The state-funded combined partner program, Jobs & Hope West Virginia, currently employs 23 Transition Agents statewide. The Transition Agents are placed within the local WFWV office locations or co-located within the regional AJCs or an affiliate office location. Individual referrals are conducted through the local WFWV office location or regional AJC and affiliate sites. 

The Post-Secondary Carl Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Services (Perkins) combined partner has nine CTC locations throughout the state. Currently, eight West Virginia Adult Education classrooms are co-located on the campus of the CTCs. Itinerant on-sites are organized through the regional AJCs and affiliate office locations. Individual referrals to CTC training programs are conducted through regional AJC and affiliate sites.

West Virginia is making and receiving considerable investments in technology and infrastructure upgrades that will improve the delivery of workforce development services. The state is working to expand capacity by fostering public-private partnerships and collaborations to leverage additional resources, expertise, industry associates, and community stakeholders. 

Services

The WDS provides a wide array of career and training services to promote quality employment outcomes to job seekers in WV and assist WV employers with their labor needs. These services are provided not only at AJCs and field offices, but also at homes, schools, businesses, and online.

West Virginia’s WDS provides multiple services to residents, including Job Seeker Services, Veterans Services, Dislocated Workers Services (including TAA, TRA, and ATAA/RTAA), Employer Services, Unemployment Compensation, and Labor Market Information. In addition, WV offers multiple opportunities to assist those who are seeking training such as on-site classes, customized training (conducted in cooperation with employers), and technology training designed to enhance student transition and retention. They also offer programs that provide cash assistance, along with a variety of employment and education related services for low-income families with dependent children to help establish self-sufficiency. Finally, West Virginia is fully committed to providing comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, especially those with significant disabilities, who seek to obtain, retain, or maintain competitive, integrated employment. DRS services, together with pre-employment transition services, cover a spectrum of individualized needs, including medical, educational, employment, career and training, and other support needs.

Business Relations

A key component of the success of West Virginia’s WDS is the success that the system has had in maintaining strong relationships with businesses and employers across the state.

DRS employs nine Employment Specialists who provide statewide coverage in their task of maintaining business relations in the State of West Virginia. These relations entail not only placement of individuals with disabilities into positions, but also the acquisition of labor market information, complementing the information acquired by WFWV. DRS and WFWV work together to provide the most comprehensive labor market information available.

WFWV produces and provides extensive labor market information to its participants, and to the public in general, thanks to communication and the exchange of information with employers regarding opportunities, expected growth, and the knowledge, skills, and abilities that these employers expect from potential employees.

In 2019, West Virginia established a Business Services Unit (BSU) using an approach proposed by Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) 10-16 WIOA Operating Guidance. WFWV has chosen to focus on “Retention” and “Repeat” as pilot approaches and primary indicators of performance for measuring effectiveness in serving employers. The BSU continues to focus on these primary indicators of performance and establish strong employer engagement connections throughout the state. In October 2022, WFWV scheduled monthly Virtual Job Fair Platform events to establish another venue for connecting employers with qualified job seekers. Also, the BSU team organized and conducted specific job fairs geared towards “industry specific” occupations.

The BSU works closely with employers statewide and by the end of 2023, 2,133 employers have registered for job fairs with over 11,000 job postings. Registered job seekers exceeded 10,000 with over 94,000 employer booth visits and 5,100 resumes submitted. Approximately 75% of employers “repeat” each month. Consistency and collaboration with employers, partner agencies, and community resources have been integral in the success of the virtual job fair platform and in-person job fairs.

• Approach 1: “Retention with the Same Employer” addresses the programs’ efforts to provide employers with skilled workers. In 2022, the retention rate was 66%.         
• Approach 2: “Repeat Business Customers” addresses the programs’ efforts to provide quality engagement and services to employers and sectors and establish productive relationships with employers and sectors over extended periods of time. In 2022, the repeat rate was 59%.

In establishing a BSU, West Virginia is using indicators to show areas needing improvement, increase employer engagement, provide technical assistance, and focus on indicators at quarterly meetings. Members include:

• Employer Representatives from our seven LWDBs
• WFWV Local Veteran Employment Representatives
• State Business Services Unit
• DRS
• Adult Education
• Senior Services
• Community Resources
• Partner Agencies 

Programs and initiatives offered by the BSU are available to all employers and enhance the labor force by utilizing the following programs and services:

• Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
• Federal Bonding
• On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs
• Apprenticeship promotion
• Recruiting employers to AJCs
• Connecting jobseekers by facilitating relationships
• Rapid Response Activities
• Veterans Services
• Migrant Seasonal Farm Worker (MSFW)
• Facilities usage for recruiting and interviewing
• Assistance with job fairs
• Assistance in providing accommodations for employees (DRS)
• Educational assistance programs
• Labor Market Information
• Employer engagement in unemployment adjudication
• Resume workshops
• Interviewing workshops
• Job Development assistance
• Early intervention strategies for layoff aversions (WV Development Office)
• Industry and Sector Strategies

The West Virginia Workforce Development Board (WVWFDB) is structured to satisfy both federal and state requirements, maintaining a majority of business representation and additional needs set forth by State legislation.

Continued emphasis on the improvement of service delivery through organizations such as the WVWFDB and the ICT will result in a more responsive and responsible system that will meet the needs of its customers. This will also promote increased economic development through the attraction, retention, and growth of businesses by providing properly trained workers who will equip businesses to compete in today’s economy. The ICT includes policy-making representatives of all State agencies involved in workforce development. Monthly meetings are conducted to discuss new initiatives, collaborations, and provide cross training information on respective partner programs. These regular meetings ensure strong coordination of policies relating to workforce programs and activities.