Op-Ed: Investing in local talent – How SWIN Workforce builds stronger communities

ByLetter to the Editor Reading Time: 2 minutes

“Workforce” is an important aspect of every community across the nation. By definition, workforce is people engaged and available for work. September is a month that is marked as National Workforce Development month. Year after year, SWIN Workforce connects hundreds of residents to jobs, skills training, and career opportunities. These investments don’t just change lives, they strengthen our local economy, helping businesses grow and our community thrive.  

Our board serves as a bridge between employers, job seekers, educators, and training providers. We ensure that public workforce dollars are invested strategically so that local businesses can find skilled workers, and residents can access the training and support they need to access pathways to family-sustaining employment. Last year alone, our board achieved remarkable results: 

  • We helped 519 jobseekers secure employment in high-demand fields.
  • We partnered with 287 local employers to create customized training programs, apprenticeships, and upskilling opportunities.
  • Through our initiatives, 826 K-12 students gained career development and STEM skills, preparing them for careers in southwest Indiana.

These numbers tell a story—but so do the people behind them. Take Cameron for example. A 23-year-old with a sparse work history, Cameron Martin wanted a career that would pay more than a minimum wage; her love of driving led to her choice of obtaining a commercial driving license. Unemployed, she took advantage of every level of service from basic services such as assessments which supported her career decision, job readiness workshops including significant resume assistance, and career exploration of the trucking industry.

Supported by individualized services including career counseling and planning, Cameron completed the training and obtained her commercial driver’s license. Cameron’s job search was successful when she decided to take a position at Schneider because the company valued safety and new drivers, particularly working with Cameron‘s preference for a dry van trailer as opposed to a flatbed trailer.

 This National Workforce Development Month, we take time to recognize the transformative power of programs like ours across the country. We call on local leaders, businesses, and community partners to continue supporting workforce development programs that create opportunities for all. By investing in skills training, apprenticeships, and career pathways, we can ensure that southwest Indiana residents are prepared for the jobs of today and the careers of tomorrow.  

Workforce development is about more than employment. It’s about building stronger communities, fostering opportunity, and empowering people to reach their potential.  This September, we celebrate the difference our local workforce board makes every day in southwest Indiana, and we invite our community to join us in this work.

Learn more at swinworkforce.org or www.nawb.org.

Sincerely,

Sara Worstell
Executive Director

Share