Last month, we discussed the importance of workforce development as an important aspect of economic growth and prosperity, and the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has traditionally played a significant role in supporting and promoting workforce development initiatives across the Grand Valley. Now more than ever, it is vital that we not only continue the impactful efforts already in motion, but we double down on the resources focused on bolstering our future talent pipeline.
Work-based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training are an important cornerstone in increasing our workforce in the Grand Junction area. There are many reasons why we, as a business community, should care about these opportunities. With workers having the ability to gain access to work-based learning, this will help increase the skills needed to meet the expectations of the labor market and will also allow them to earn higher wages and workers are less likely to seek employment opportunities in other cities or states, preserving the stability of our local economy.
Not only does work-based learning benefit our workers, but it will also benefit our businesses. By recruiting individuals who have undergone these work-based learning programs, our local businesses will be able to reduce the time and resources required for training, as these individuals are already equipped with relevant knowledge and capabilities. By producing a highly skilled workforce, facilitating faster integration into the job market, and fostering employer collaboration, work-based learning enhances the competitive edge of the economy.
Recognizing the value of these opportunities is often not enough to allow employers to open their door to these important career exploration experiences. To assist with overcoming barriers preventing these programs we at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce our new West Slope Works program! We have been awarded a $230,000 grant to be an intermediary in creating these work-based learning programs! The West Slope Work program will give students and young adults the ability to learn in three different ways.
WEST SLOPE Works funding can be used to help with the startup costs of these programs including training dollars, along with assisting to offset other expenses such as wages, supplies, and transportation. There are multiple levels of incentives available and must fall into three approved categories (this list is not exhaustive):
Learning ABOUT Work: Career counseling, career planning, career fairs, career presentations, industry speakers, informational interviews, mentoring, worksite tours, project- based learning, job shadowing, externships
Learning THROUGH Work: Clinical experiences, credit-for-work experiences, internships, pre-apprenticeships, industry-sponsored projects, supervised entrepreneurship experience.
Learning AT Work: Apprenticeships, on-the-job training, employee development, residencies, incumbent worker training Applications will be available through our website and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The program ends in May 2024 or when funds are expended.
Applications will be available through our website and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The program ends in May 2024 or when funds are expended.
Embracing this grant program will give our local economy a competitive edge in the marketplace and will help position it for long-term success. This close partnership will strengthen the relationship between academia and our economy while also leading to mutually beneficial outcomes for both the employer and new members of the workforce.
As we now enter our summer season and the new school year planning is on the minds of many, we hope that you will consider starting a work-based learning program at your company so we can continue our goal of strengthening our workforce and giving your young adults the tools needed to be successful in our economy.
Rolling out in June, an application from the Chamber will be available to businesses which will allow reimbursement of up to $10,000 for these start-up costs. This application will run through May 2024. Click here to learn more and for the application.
Please reach out to David, Workforce Development Manager for more details: david@gjchamber.org or 970-263-2916
Through this unique opportunity, we look forward to working closely with our stakeholders and partners to increase the engagement of our K-12 and college students within a robust system of learning and career exploration that assists identifying their passions and talents within our local business community.