Business Leaders Guide our Strategies
We are working together to build a stronger economy.
#WorkforceDev2025
#WorkforceDev2025
Business and government are working together to grow jobs and the economy. Local workforce boards, led by employers and working with schools and community groups, make sure plans fit the needs of their area.
Michelle, Executive Director of the Windsor Downtown Development Authority, knows the power of internships to build a skilled, engaged workforce. After successfully turning an intern placement at the Windsor Chamber of Commerce into a permanent hire, she has continued to invest in internships that provide hands-on experience in marketing, event planning, and business engagement. These programs not only deliver valuable support to local employers but also cultivate future leaders committed to the community’s growth. Michelle’s ongoing partnership with Employment Services demonstrates how strategic internships can drive long-term talent development and business success.
In February 2024, Brandy started a new career through Catholic Charities’ re-hire program, beginning a placement at the Pueblo workforce center. After more than 15 years in restaurant management, she was ready for a fresh challenge but unsure of her next move. She applied for roles that could use her skills and offer stability.
At the workforce center, Brandy quickly adapted, built strong relationships, and discovered a passion for helping others. Her efforts were noticed—by July she was hired as a temporary Paving Access to Careers and Employment (PACE) Ambassador, and soon after, as a permanent Talent Development Coach for the Central region.
Her journey shows how transferable skills, dedication, and the right support can open the door to a fulfilling new career. The partnership between the Pueblo One Stop team and Catholic Charities made her success possible.
Connect Communities: The statewide public workforce system that makes up Workforce Colorado works with businesses, schools and community groups to offer training and job opportunities. CDLE’s Office of the Future of Work gives grants to grow and expand apprenticeships, focusing on good jobs and reaching communities that have been left out. These efforts connect job seekers and students with career paths and provide employers with skilled workers.
Drive Growth: CDLE teams up on projects that help local economies and create new jobs. Using the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, a federal program supporting workforce development and economic growth, CDLE and the Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) fund training programs and grants. They work with businesses, schools and workforce groups to meet industry needs and help workers learn new skills.
Build Partnerships: CWDC supports partnerships that bring businesses, schools and workforce groups together to meet the needs of key industries like technology, healthcare and manufacturing. Support to public-private partnerships includes tools, advice and grants to build skilled workforces that grow Colorado’s economy. Explore some of the private-public partnerships that are meeting Colorado’s workforce needs.