North Raleigh Today

Governor Josh Stein's new Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships convened its inaugural meeting in Raleigh. The council is tasked with developing strategies to enhance North Carolina's workforce, ensuring continued economic growth and providing pathways to careers for jobseekers.

"We want every North Carolinian to have the opportunity to build a good life with a good career and every business to have the skilled workers they need to grow," said Governor Stein. "This Council will help us strengthen pathways from education to employment, so our state remains one of the best places in the country to live, work, and do business."

The council was established as an advisory body within the NCWorks Commission and is co-chaired by N.C. Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, state Senator Eddie Settle, and N.C. Community College System President Dr. Jeffrey Cox. It receives administrative support from the Department of Commerce and the North Carolina Business Committee for Education.

According to Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, "to make progress on both workforce development and economic development requires strong collaboration, and that’s what this Council represents. We are fortunate to have outstanding partners participating from across North Carolina, whose perspectives and expertise are essential to formulating recommendations that meet industry needs for a trained workforce, while providing everyone with a shot at success."

The council members come from public and private organizations, government agencies, non-profits, and educational institutions, bringing a wide range of experience and expertise to the table. Senator Eddie Settle commented, "Strengthening our workforce is essential to North Carolina’s continued growth and prosperity. This Council represents a vital opportunity to bring together voices from across the state to ensure that our workforce strategies align with the real needs of employers and communities alike."

The council's mandate, as per Governor Stein’s Executive Order No. 11 issued in March, includes setting quantifiable goals and shaping strategies to enhance North Carolina's workforce development initiatives over the next four years. The council will focus on various areas such as credential and degree attainment, labor market alignment, apprenticeships, and sector-based strategies in emerging fields. Reports to Governor Stein are expected by June 15 and December.

Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the NC Community College System, emphasized the role of community colleges in workforce development, stating, "North Carolina’s community colleges are deeply connected to local employers and students. Through this Council, we can further align training with industry demand and open more doors for North Carolinians to enter rewarding careers with meaningful upward mobility."

During their first meeting, the council members outlined their responsibilities and examined the state's current education and workforce objectives. Members include representatives from a broad spectrum of sectors, ensuring diverse perspectives in shaping North Carolina’s workforce landscape.