 The Workforce Board's 2025 Matrix poster offers an overview of Washington's workforce development system.
May News
Workforce Board retreat highlights voices from business, labor and local leaders
On May 15, the Workforce Board will gather in Tumwater for a full-day retreat focused on workforce development strategies for the year ahead. The morning session will feature insights from business, labor, and local workforce development boards, providing a broad perspective on workforce challenges and opportunities. In the afternoon, board members will explore how these diverse viewpoints can shape legislative priorities and guide the next steps for Talent and Prosperity for All, Washington’s strategic workforce plan. Learn more details and RSVP here.
Clean energy committee meets May 6; industry surveys, policy discussion on agenda
The Clean Energy Technology Workforce Advisory Committee meets virtually from 10-11:30 a.m. on May 6. Workforce Board staff will present updates on a new survey focused on hiring and training needs for both employers and workers in the energy sector. Updates on the Washington Climate Corps Network and policy discussions are also on the agenda. Contact the Workforce Board’s Ilene Munk for more information.
Healthcare employers: Sentinel Network needs your input
Washington’s annual data collection effort targeting employers' health workforce needs is now open. The seeks to understand employer challenges related to recruitment, retention and other needs. All types of healthcare facilities, both traditional and non-traditional, are encouraged to participate. The results help lawmakers and planners make better decisions to support a strong healthcare system in Washington. The Sentinel Network is an initiative of Washington’s Health Workforce Council, conducted collaboratively by the Workforce Board and the University of Washington’s Center for Health Workforce Studies.
Washington Award for Vocational Excellence scholarship: Record number of applications
A record number of Washington students have applied for the Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE) scholarship. This is a state-funded merit scholarship for top career and technical education students. When the application window closed March 17, some 570 students had applied. That’s a 71% increase compared to 2024. (There were 114 applicants in 2022, 250 in 2023 and 334 in 2024.) A new application portal, ongoing outreach and increased awareness resulted in interest from all over the state. Each of Washington’s 49 legislative districts are represented – urban and rural, Eastern and Western Washington. As many as 147 students can receive the award each year – three from each legislative district. This year’s awardees will be announced in the coming weeks.
Spring is here and the legislative session is complete! We hope you enjoy the weather and take a break when you can.
We'd love to hear from you. Email me at andrew.lenderman@wtb.wa.gov.
Andrew Lenderman
Communications Manager
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