WHEREAS, the global economy continues to change rapidly, underscoring the need to make sure North Carolinians are ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow; and
WHEREAS, the strength of North Carolina’s workforce is one of the most important factors for businesses looking to locate or expand in our state; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals connect North Carolinians to good jobs and help them become successful, productive workers, while helping North Carolina businesses find new employees, train their current employees, and develop strong, diverse talent pipelines; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals help their clients build confidence, find pathways to rewarding careers with family-sustaining wages, and gain the skills they need for the modern workplace; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina is making great progress in strengthening the alignment of economic development with First in Talent, a strategic economic development plan that highlights the importance of preparing the workforce for career and entrepreneurial success; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals promote the upskilling and reskilling of North Carolina workers so that they can fill a growing number of jobs for employers, while also expanding opportunity through the promotion of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI); and
WHEREAS, the NC Job Ready initiative focuses on workforce development and is built on three core principles: skills and education attainment, employer leadership, and local innovation; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals are essential partners in the effort to achieve our state’s educational attainment goal of 2 million North Carolinians between the ages of 25 and 44 years with a postsecondary degree or credential by 2030; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals serve within the NCWorks system, which includes the North Carolina Department of Commerce, local Workforce Development Boards, community colleges, public schools, and other organizations, strengthening our state through their expertise and leadership;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October, 2022, as “WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.