Job Training and Employment Services Create Opportunities for Workers
In an increasingly competitive global economy, a skilled workforce is critical to national and community economic vitality. Investments in workforce development (WFD) enhance productivity by creating efficient labor markets in which worker competencies align with employer needs. Workforce development is a sophisticated discipline that must account for the globalization of work, an increased emphasis on information- and service-based occupations, and advances in training and educational technology.
As one of the most experienced social policy research firms, Abt Associates recognizes the highly integrated and multi-dimensional nature of successful WFD strategies. The development of a fully prepared and responsive workforce is integrally linked to a range of economic development, educational, and social service challenges facing all communities. Abt Associates' workforce development group draws on the diverse and interdisciplinary experience of our staff, blending both research and operational expertise to address these challenges.
Abt Associates' work with commercial clients, nonprofits, and government agencies affords us a balanced understanding of demand- and supply-side considerations when crafting WFD solutions. This is most effectively accomplished through partnerships that promote the mutual interests of employers, incumbent workers, and job seekers. We have experienced this firsthand through our examination of various partnerships among business and education, labor and management, and multiple employers within an
economic sector. We have also worked extensively with smaller faith-based and community organizations as they partner with intermediaries to strengthen service delivery capacity and infrastructure within local communities.
Our experienced staff are recognized for cutting-edge work in designing and implementing experimental and quasi-experimental research designs in support of clients' evaluation objectives. In addition, we conduct process and formative evaluations that emphasize service delivery effectiveness, process improvement, organizational capacity development, and partnership formation.
