Suggestions for Future Research in the Area of Workforce Development Systems and Regional Economic Development in the United States

Workforce development systems operate as a linchpin between individuals who desire or need to develop skills that will be remunerated well and will lead to fulfilling careers in the labor market and employers who desire skilled workers who will be productive in the workplace. These systems, however, have been criticized for failings at both ends of the system: they have not served well individuals from underrepresented populations, and they have not been responsive to the changing nature of work and employment relationships. This commentary suggests that these are the most cogent problems to be addressed in future workforce development research. Needed are subgroup analyses of each phase of education and training opportunities: outreach efforts, participation, interest and skill assessments, retention and completion, supportive services, and post-program labor market impacts. Also important will be research into the other side of the market: how can workforce development systems do a better job at inculcating skills that are needed to be productive in the workforce and skills that better meet the future demands of employers?