What we mean by "sector"

Sector initiatives are industry-specific workforce development approaches. They share four common elements that distinguish them from conventional programs.

  • They are targeted to a specific industry, crafting solutions tailored to that industry in that region.
  • They offer the presence of a strategic partner with deep knowledge of the targeted industry and its companies linking them with organizations that may include community-based nonprofits, employer organizations, organized labor, community colleges, and others.
  • They provide training strategies that benefit low-income individuals, including the unemployed, non-traditional labor pools, and low-wage incumbent workers.
  • They promote systemic change that cultivates a win-win environment by restructuring internal and external employment practices to achieve changes beneficial to employers, low-wage workers and low-income job seekers.

Leaders in the field use a variety of strategies tailored to the regional economy, industry sectors and worker populations. Basic strategies include training and skills development for specific industries and occupations; business development; organizing residents, workers, employers and other key constituents; researching and restructuring the work environment; and integrating two or more of these strategies in a multi-faceted approach. These initiatives result in companies that are better able to fulfill workforce objectives, while employees obtain improved income, benefits and employment opportunities.