Upcoming Meeting:

June 19, 2008
12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Department of Human Services
Room 6146
444 Lafayette Rd. N.
St. Paul, MN 55155

Focus Question:

Complete a review of specific program, policy or funding changes that could advance skill development opportunities for low-wage Minnesotans, including those who have to rely on public assistance for economic stability.

Committee Charge:

The GWDC Skill and Wage Advancement Committee will examine and recommend ways to build the short-term skills training components of Minnesota's education and training infrastructure in order to: increase advancement opportunities for more workers; fill employers' skill needs; and strengthen the connection between short-term skills-training programs and higher education.

Through the study of innovative and successful models of delivering short-term skills training the Committee will focus on developing recommendations that include, but are not limited to:

1. Strategies to formalize short-term skill development activities so that a higher percentage provide college credit or other marketable credentials.

2. A clear definition of “soft skills” for workforce development policy and programs that recognizes soft skills training for all workers and promotes its integration with "hard skills " training.

3. New strategies to provide income support to low-income individuals pursuing short-term training (which could lead to higher education).