The Why of Education & Workforce Development

To ensure a vibrant future economy, we must change the way we approach education by involving new stakeholders: employers. Business professionals from businesses of all sizes can help students graduate from high school fully prepared to enter college or some other post-secondary career training on the path to a fulfilling career.

A concerted, collaborative effort made by local institutions can help identify areas where partners can work together to address pressing workforce readiness issues, better leverage resources and have a measurable impact. Key to this is emphasizing business and community partnerships with schools, so that all students have access to education and training opportunities preparing them for high-skill, high-wage employment in a fulfilling career of choice. The region’s economy and community will thrive as a result. (Source American Chamber of Commerce Executives)

Key Elements of the Tigard Chamber Workforce Development Program

• Partnership with Tigard-Tualatin School District (TTSD) and Tualatin Chamber to bring business and school together in meaningful student experiences that help enhance the quality of future hires and provide clarity on career path direction under the umbrella of the #WORKREADY program. Our focus will begin with Middle School and High School Students.
• The Tigard Chamber is dedicated to fostering growth and development through its Scholarship Fund, which plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals pursuing post-secondary education and training. Our commitment extends to both 4-year college-bound students and those focusing on vocational and trade school careers. We actively engage in the selection process and award scholarships to deserving recipients, aiming to empower and invest in the education and future success of our community members.
• Development of active workforce/professional development training for member business employees on a quarterly basis and internship programs for businesses interested in connecting to the future of their workforce in Tigard.

Worksystems, Inc.

The Worksystems, Inc. mission is to coordinate a regional workforce system that supports individual prosperity and business competitiveness. They are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that improves the quality of the workforce in the City of Portland, Multnomah and Washington counties. Their partners include employers, labor groups, government, community colleges, high schools, community-based and economic development organizations.

Worksystems, Inc. goal is to support a regional public workforce system that provides integrated services, accessible training, and prepares and connects job seekers to high-quality regional jobs.

Programs are defined by these key pillars:

• Building a Better System
• Creating Opportunity
• Supporting Youth
• Strengthening Regional Industry 

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WorkSource Portland Metro

WorkSource Portland Metro is your one-stop career center and a proud partner of the American Job Center network. Job counselors and training experts from area community colleges, the Oregon Employment Department, and local nonprofit agencies work together to help you reach your short-term job needs as well as your longer-term career goals. All services are free.

Whether you’ve been laid off, want a career change, or are looking for your first job, WorkSource has the resources to help you take that next step. From entry level to executive leadership, they are here to help you get the job you want.

Programs include:

• In-Person and Virtual Workshops
• Job Clubs
• Job Training and Education
• One-on-One Career Guidance
• Career Exploration Workshops

There are five full-service WorkSource Center locations and one Express Center in Downtown Portland.