Worksystems Strategic Plan 2024-2028

Building strategies for a better tomorrow.

About our Strategic Plan

Supporting our vision that people have the skills and support they need to successfully engage, advance, and succeed in the labor market and employers have qualified employees to grow and thrive.

The 2024-2028 Worksystems Strategic Plan comes at a time of great transition.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a once-in-a-generation disruptive event, which not only upended the global economy and social norms but ushered in changes to traditional workplace dynamics and modes of work with which we are still struggling to adjust. The pandemic exacerbated an already-existing labor market shortage, which presents both tremendous opportunities for working people – as jobs are plentiful and wages are on the rise – and challenges for employers to match available positions with skilled workers.

Simultaneously, our region is undergoing a dramatic realignment, with Multnomah County’s population declining for the first time in more than three decades. Intersecting with these conditions are unprecedented investments at the local, state, and federal levels. The Portland Metro area is uniquely positioned to leverage these investments to solidify its leadership position in several sectors of industry, most notably advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

We remain committed to serving people who need our help the most. We know that to achieve success and create a tangible difference in people’s lives, support must be delivered by those who truly understand and care for their communities. The partners that collaborate with us to move this plan forward were intentionally chosen because they are effective at breaking down barriers for people who have struggled to benefit from the system.

2024 Strategic Plan Goals

Building a better System

The regional public workforce system is coordinated to provide integrated services, training funds, and resources. We pursue continuous improvement to provide maximum value for employers, job seekers, workers, post-secondary education providers, and community-based partners.

Creating Opportunity

All job seekers are connected to the training and support necessary to enter quality jobs.

Supporting Youth

All youth gain the skills and experience to succeed in the workforce.

Strengthening Regional Industry

Employers can recruit and retain the talent they need to fill quality jobs through the public workforce system.

Stronger Together

To achieve these goals, we must work together across our traditional departments and roles, and continue to build partnerships with community-based organizations to ensure our collective success. The 2024-2028 Strategic Plan represents Worksystems’ commitment to make the most of the current moment, and to ensure that our “new normal” leaves no one behind and fosters broad prosperity for everyone who calls our region home.

meeting with washington county mayors