As we close out Workforce Development Month, we want to highlight some of CWDC Council members and why workforce development is important to them in their own words.
Thank you to all of the Council members who volunteer their expertise and time toward the vision that every Colorado employer has access to a skilled workforce and every Coloradan has the opportunity for meaningful employment, resulting in individual and statewide economic prosperity.
Jonathan Liebert, CWDC Chair, CEO of BBB of Southern Colorado
Why did you choose to become involved with the CWDC?
I believe deeply in the power of workforce development to transform lives and strengthen communities. It’s about making real, tangible differences in people’s lives by connecting them with the right opportunities and training.
Is there anything that has surprised you about your time on the Council?
One thing that has surprised me is how expansive the field of workforce development is. It intersects with education, business, technology, and even policymaking. The scope of impact we can have is truly astounding.
What is something you wish more people knew about workforce development?
I wish more people knew that workforce development isn’t just about job training; it’s a comprehensive support system for economic and personal growth. It’s about building a sustainable and resilient economy by investing in people.
What advice would you give to a business, job seeker, or worker considering going to their local workforce center?
Don’t hesitate. These centers are invaluable resources that can help you navigate the complexities of the job market, upskill for your career, or find the right talent for your business.
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Peter Brissette, CWDC Chair-Elect, CEO of DMD Consulting,
Why did you choose to become involved with the CWDC?
I am on the board for Adams County Workforce Development and wanted to gain a better understanding of workforce issues from the state level to better support what we are doing here.
Is there anything that has surprised you about your time serving on the Council or in workforce development?
It has been amazing to see the innovation of so many businesses and their workforce needs, as well as the creative collaboration between business, nonprofit, and government organizations to create a wealth of opportunities for Colorado residents.
What is something you wish more people knew about workforce development?
I wish businesses knew about the resources available to help train and upskill their teams and provide opportunities for more people by working with workforce and business centers.
What advice would you give to a business, job seeker, or worker considering going to their local workforce center?
Do it! The Workforce and Business Centers are hubs of opportunity in local communities. They know where the jobs are and have the resources to prepare you for those jobs.
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Dedrick Sims, CWDC Secretary, CEO of the Sims-Fayola Foundation
Why did you choose to become involved with the CWDC?
I chose to become involved with the CWDC because I recognize the critical role that workforce development plays in creating equitable opportunities for all, especially young men of color. As the CEO of the Sims-Fayola Foundation, we work tirelessly to address the systemic challenges they face in education and the workforce. Being part of the CWDC allows me to collaborate with leaders across the state to ensure our workforce systems are inclusive, responsive, and supportive of historically marginalized communities.
What has surprised you about your time on the Council?
One surprising aspect has been the sheer complexity and breadth of workforce development systems. It’s not just about connecting people with jobs; it involves navigating policy, education, business needs, and even mental health services to create a sustainable and supportive infrastructure.
What is something you wish more people knew about workforce development?
I wish more people understood that workforce development is about more than just job training—it’s about building a holistic support system. This includes providing tools, education, and services like childcare support, mental health resources, and accessible transportation. Workforce development plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome systemic barriers to employment. Employers benefit, too, by creating a more prepared, diverse, and resilient workforce.
What advice would you give to a business, job seeker, or worker considering going to their local workforce center?
Take full advantage of all the resources your local workforce center offers. For businesses, it’s a chance to connect with skilled talent and access programs that can help you develop your workforce. For job seekers and workers, workforce centers offer much more than job placement; they provide career counseling, skills training, and support services like childcare and transportation assistance. Don’t hesitate to explore these opportunities, as they are there to help you succeed and grow, no matter where you are in your career or business.
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Dan Kraus, Training Director, Pueblo Electrical JATC
Why did you choose to become involved with the CWDC?
The WIOA grant is very important to our apprenticeship program. The available networking opportunities are endless. The resources through the CWDC are incredible, and many Coloradans are not aware of them.
What is something you wish more people understood about workforce development?
It is righteous work (that the council) is doing and it is very important work. It is very important that we continue the work. We have so much to do. We know that we are going to continue to have work for almost an eternity.
What is your advice for businesses, job seekers, and workers?
All Colorado businesses, job seekers, and workers should utilize their local workforce centers. The workforce staff members are there to assist and promote each of them.
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Tracy Mead, CEO of Project Self-Sufficiency of Northern Colorado
Why did you choose to become involved with the CWDC?
My passion is economic mobility, and I chose to become involved with CWDC to help solve workforce issues across Colorado, particularly by bringing under-skilled and marginalized individuals into the workforce.
What has surprised you during your time on the Council?
I have been delighted by the level of brilliance and innovation at every CWDC meeting.
What is something you wish more people understood about workforce development?
I wish more people understood that workforce development is a team sport and that no one sector can solve our problems.
What advice would you give to businesses connecting with their local workforce center?
Spend time understanding all of the resources available to support the success of your business.
What is Workforce Development Month? September is Workforce Development Month, as officially proclaimed by Governor Jared Polis. Workforce development is a powerful driver of economic progress, the nationwide celebration of Workforce Development Month recognizes the tireless efforts of our workforce partners who better our economy and build pipelines to good jobs that help individuals, employers, and communities thrive.
How to Get Involved:
Visit the CDLE Workforce Center website to learn more about your local workforce center and access resources available to help job seekers and employers.