We were pleased to see Shari Phiel’s article (“Council talks economy, workforce” The Columbian, July 13) on how Workforce Southwest Washington supports economic development by investing in worker training, recruitment and retention for local businesses. As a nonprofit, WSW is always seeking additional grant funds to support our community and bridge the gaps between worker skills and company needs.
We will be applying for a grant this month focused on the construction industry. I invite construction companies and the labor community to contact me at dhoffman@workforcesw.org as soon as possible to discuss construction workforce needs and your ideas to meet those needs. The grant funds we receive will be used to meet local construction workforce training and hiring needs.
With several large infrastructure projects like the Interstate 5 Bridge replacement and Waterfront Gateway on the horizon, WSW is analyzing the supply of workers in our region to identify what will be needed to ensure local youth and adults get the training and skills they need to apply for and obtain those jobs.
Looking forward to hearing from local construction companies and labor groups on collaborating.
