SkillUp Washington and Microsoft have worked collaboratively on moving the College For Working Adults pilot programs forward.  Our relationship with McKinstry, a leader in construction and green energy, has also been strong.  SkillUp Washington continues to build strong employer partnerships within our community.

SkillUp Washington has conducted some analysis on high growth sectors.  Please click here to view a report that the Workforce Development Council of Seattle King County produced.  However, during the past year, economic challenges have impacted nearly every employer and sector in our region.  Despite slow or reduced growth in sectors though, we are beginning to see great employer opportunities and partnerships, particularly within energy efficiency and health care.

Recently SkillUp Washington was awarded a $250,000 grant in residential and commercial energy efficiency.  This grant will result in more workers being trained in a high demand field that is full of promise.  Research on training gaps in this field will be completed, as well as an inventory on the types of Washington state businesses manufacturing equipment that serves the energy efficiency industry.

Despite the recent and significant changes in our regional and national economy, there is still hope when it comes to sector development. SkillUp Washington believes that there are some exciting opportunities presented for local development and job creation in manufacturing. The following report, prepared by an intern at the University of Washington, highlights the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing within the Puget Sound region and provides some concrete steps on how to move forward. Click here to view the report.

Keep checking our web site for more information on industry partnerships in 2009!