The State Employment and Training Commission is the state Workforce Development Board (WDB) for New Jersey. As the State WDB, the SETC provides policy guidance, oversight and technical assistance for local WDBs.
This section features workforce information helpful to local WDB members and staff, and highlights the best practices of local WDBs.
The Local Workforce Development Boards (WDBs) in New Jersey play a crucial role in enhancing the state's global competitiveness by developing a skilled workforce. Here are the key points about their function and structure:
Roles and Responsibilities
- Leadership and Oversight: WDBs act like Boards of Directors for their respective local areas, identifying job market needs, leveraging resources, overseeing One-Stop Career Centers, and directing workforce investment programs.
- Collaboration: They work with economic development and related organizations to promote economic growth and maximize workforce utilization.
- Service Integration: WDBs are responsible for integrating publicly funded workforce services and job training programs into a cohesive, flexible, and responsive system.
- Strategic Planning: Based on local community needs, WDBs define a vision, mission, and goals, establishing the local one-stop service delivery system to serve various groups including unemployed job seekers, businesses, incumbent workers, and young people entering the workforce.
Historical Context
- Executive Order #36 (1996): Established workforce investment boards in New Jersey.
- Workforce Investment Act of 1998: Mandated the creation of these boards across all states and U.S. territories.
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 (WIOA): Renamed these boards as Workforce Development Boards (WDBs).
Governance and Membership
- Certification and Appointment: The Governor of New Jersey certifies the local WDBs, while local elected officials appoint WDB members.
- Membership Composition: A majority of the board members must be private business representatives. Other required members include representatives from organized labor, community-based organizations, education, human services, and other relevant sectors.
Regional Collaboration
Given that labor markets often extend beyond county lines, WDBs in contiguous areas collaborate to facilitate regional initiatives, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to workforce development.
Strategic Goals
The strategic plans of WDBs aim to create a seamless service delivery system that is accountable and responsive to the needs of both workers and businesses, thereby contributing to the overall economic growth and competitiveness of New Jersey.
