The Little Rock Workforce Center (LRWFC) uses a demand driven concept, leveraging strategies like a Business Advisory Team (BAT) to enhance partnerships with local employers.
Business owners and industry leaders direct the decisions of the local workforce development system funded by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). BAT members make operational decisions regarding areas of focus in target industries and career pathways.
The members of the BAT also ensure that an Employer Toolbox is given to employers on initial contact. This toolbox provides written information on all services available at the local Workforce Center through pamphlets, brochures, and business cards. The toolbox also educates employers on available incentives when hiring targeted populations through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program, Federal Bonding programs, and On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs.
BAT Ambassadors coordinate job fairs and industry-specific events where employers can recruit and conduct on-site interviews at no cost to employers and job seekers. BAT hosts work closely with the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and other economic and community development organizations to establish strong partnerships. BAT members attend business after-hour networking events and stay connected with national and state Human Resource Associations.
The BAT was created in 2012, consisting of business service representatives from LRWFC partner agencies. Since then, the team has expanded its business outreach to serve the needs of local employers on a customized basis.
To learn more about local workforce development success stories, please visit http://workforcesuccessstories.com.