WorkForce Central

09/07/2026

Businesses play a critical role in supporting their employees affected by domestic violence and maintaining a safe workplace.

▶️More than 50% of workers who experienced domestic violence said the abuse continued at their place of work, and 1 in 3 said domestic violence affected their ability to get to work.

By recognizing the signs of domestic violence and responding with knowledge and compassion, employers can help employees stay connected to the stability and support they need. This October, during Domestic Violence Awareness month, we’ll be sharing resources from our Domestic Violence workgroup to empower employers supporting those affected by domestic violence.

09/04/2026

Last week, Pierce County Executive Ryan N Mello signed the Building Together Initiative: an important investment in Pierce County’s workforce, businesses, and future.

The initiative is creating more pathways to family-wage careers in Pierce County through:
▶️ Expansion of local apprenticeship opportunities
▶️ Reduction of barriers for local contractors seeking public project opportunities
▶️ An investment of $300,000 in training for high-demand skilled trades at Clover Park Technical College

This is workforce development in action: Pierce County departments, workforce development, labor, contractors, technical colleges, and community partners coming together to build a stronger Pierce County.

With more than 14,000 young people in our region currently disconnected from work and education, creating clear, accessible pathways into careers with real earning potential is critical.

09/02/2026

We are so excited to see three incredible Tacoma businesses we've had the pleasure of working with featured in the 2026 Workforce Jobs Initiative - Employer Insights Report from Washington STEM!

Spindle Dynamics LLC, Aquagga Inc., and Urban Accessories, Inc were recognized for what successful employers do best: investing in their people, hiring for aptitude and attitude, embedding training into their operations, and building workplace cultures where employees can grow and succeed.

These findings reinforce something we see every day in our work: strong workforce partnerships are built on trust, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to opportunity. We're proud to see Pierce County employers helping shape a statewide conversation about what effective employer engagement can and should look like.
👉Read the report at https://loom.ly/7FrCkJY

08/28/2026

Our staff spent time with Jahmad Canley & Potential Unleashed Consulting at our summer staff retreat! It was a great two days connecting and learning about leading with purpose and planning around impact.

08/26/2026

When local businesses thrive, Pierce County does too 💪

Resharing this spotlight on Fluffy Girl Creations LLC: a business built on spreading self-love, acceptance, and creativity. Stories like these are why we're proud to support the growth of our local businesses!

08/24/2026

Sharing this upcoming event from Infinite Possibilities for grad students and newly licensed clinicians! Supporting the transition from education to practice is key to building a strong behavioral health workforce.

08/22/2026

How can businesses support employees affected by domestic violence?

WorkForce Central's Chief Collective Impact Officer, Shellie Willis, and board member Umi Wagoner joined Crystal Judson Family Justice Center on CityLine to discuss the impact of domestic violence in the workplace and the importance of informed, compassionate employer responses.

👉Watch the full interview at: https://loom.ly/UKSdO_c

This conversation is just the beginning. As we look ahead to Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, we'll be sharing additional resources and learning opportunities to help employers create safer, more supportive workplaces.

Join Amanda Westbrooke in the studio as CityLine highlights the par...

08/19/2026

Last week, WorkForce Central was proud to support the Parkland Resource Fair & Community Connection event, bringing together community members, local leaders, and service providers in one space.

Opportunities like these strengthen the entire community. There is real power in creating spaces where residents can connect directly with the people, resources, and organizations working on their behalf.

08/13/2026

South Tacoma, University Place, Spanaway, Parkland, and Lakewood are home to over half of Pierce County’s young adults who are not working or in school - 10 times higher than the county average.

These findings suggest targeted outreach, co-located services, and community partnerships may be the most effective way to connect our young adults with opportunity.

Learn where our workforce system can have the greatest impact on young adults:
▶️Read our 2026 report: https://loom.ly/K37VTCw

05/15/2026

Jolita Perez, Manager of System, Workforce, and Student Development at MultiCare Health System, brings valuable experience in job placement, enrollment, and healthcare to our board. Her expertise and insights help strengthen connections between education, workforce development, and the healthcare sector.

The Pierce County Workforce Development Board is a business-led council of community leaders representing the public, private, and philanthropic sectors. They volunteer their time and expertise to help build a stronger workforce for Pierce County.

Learn more about our board on our website: https://workforce-central.org/about/our-leadership/