Shaping Skagit County’s Workforce: Insights from Aaron Weinberg and EDASC

Career and Technical Education Month in March recognizes the vital role that technical education plays in shaping the future workforce. In Skagit County, Washington, the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County has been a driving force in strengthening the education-to-employment pipeline, connecting students with high-demand job opportunities, and fostering partnerships between industry and education. Skagit County continues to prepare students for the evolving job market and emerging career opportunities through collaborative efforts and innovative programs.

Strengthening the Education-to-Employment Pipeline

The 2023 Workforce Summit highlighted the importance of creating stronger connections between education and industry. Since then, significant progress has been made in forming new workforce pipelines and expanding internship opportunities.

"Since then, those in the Workforce Summit — education and industry — have formed new connections and created new workforce pipelines," said Aaron Weinberg, Economic Development Manager for Strategic Projects at EDASC. "One example is that the Northwest Career & Technical Academy started its internship program with two students, and now the program has over 50 internships with dozens of partner businesses. The same goes for the other educational institutions involved in those events, who have all increased participation and partnership with industry."

This growth in internships reflects the success of collaborative efforts and the commitment of educators and businesses to provide students with real-world experience and career readiness.

Expanding CTE Opportunities Through Strategic Partnerships

EDASC has played a key role in expanding CTE opportunities and aligning them with Skagit County's workforce needs. By engaging with K-12 schools and community organizations, EDASC promotes career awareness initiatives that help students explore career opportunities early.

"To help students explore career opportunities early, EDASC engages with K-12 schools and community organizations to promote career awareness initiatives," Weinberg explained. "Programs such as job fairs, industry tours, and mentorship opportunities give students insight into high-growth fields and help them make informed career choices. By fostering these connections, EDASC helps ensure that young talent is aware of and prepared for local job opportunities."

One example of these efforts is the Washington Apprenticeship Vocational Education (WAVE) Tour, a partnership between EDASC and the Northwest Educational Service District 189. This program welcomed more than 25 regional high schools for hands-on experience at the Northwest Carpenter's Institute of Washington in Burlington. These initiatives provide students practical exposure to vocational training and apprenticeship opportunities, making career pathways more accessible and appealing.

Preparing for Emerging Career Opportunities

As industries in Skagit County evolve, EDASC's top priority is ensuring that students and job seekers gain the necessary skills for emerging careers. EDASC creates a talent pipeline supporting employers and workers through strong partnerships and industry-driven educational programs.

"EDASC plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between industry and education, ensuring that students, job seekers, and workers gain the skills needed for emerging career opportunities," Weinberg said. "By fostering strong partnerships between businesses, educational institutions, and workforce development organizations, EDASC helps create a talent pipeline that supports employers and workers. These connections are critical as industries and in-demand skills evolve. For instance, having strong industry committees tied to educational programs helps ensure that educators stay current on what employers expect from talent."

This proactive approach helps keep Skagit County's workforce competitive and prepared for future challenges. By aligning educational programs with industry needs, EDASC ensures that students graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in high-demand fields.

Building a Brighter Future

Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and a commitment to connecting education with industry, EDASC continues to drive workforce development in Skagit County. The progress made since the 2023 Workforce Summit demonstrates the power of collaboration and the impact of providing students with meaningful career pathways.

As Skagit County looks to the future, the efforts of EDASC and its partners will remain crucial in shaping a vibrant and resilient local economy. By investing in CTE programs and expanding student opportunities, Skagit County is building a workforce ready to meet the demands of tomorrow. To learn more, contact us here.