The Quality Jobs Initiative is a commitment to designing and developing a regional approach with workers, employers, job seekers, community-based organizations, economic developers, and education providers to define, support and promote quality jobs.
Workforce Southwest Washington is working in collaboration with the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments, Clackamas Workforce Partnership, and Worksystems to develop a shared regional framework that will support economic recovery through business practices and public investments. Through this initiative, we seek to increase job quality by supporting strategies that provide family-sustaining wages, workplace safety, worker voice and career advancement opportunities. We hope you will join us!
In mid-2021, WSW and its Columbia-Willamette Workforce Collaborative (CWWC) partners convened a Quality Jobs Council comprised of representatives from business, labor, service providers, and government agencies located in the Portland-Southwest Washington Metropolitan area to develop and adopt a regional approach on quality jobs. The purpose of the Council is to identify what quality jobs mean in our region, how we measure them, and how they support workers, businesses, and our economy.
The Council developed a framework that outlines the essential components of a quality job. The framework includes a review of national research and best practices; 12 interviews with regional businesses and leaders; background research on equity considerations; and a survey of employers and workers.
In July 2022, the Quality Jobs Framework was formally adopted. It identifies five core elements and provides detailed strategies for employers to improve job quality.
The framework has been adopted by each of the CWWC's boards via Board Resolution.
Ensures the physical and emotional safety of workers through standard protocols and training.
Promotes inclusion, belonging, and opportunities for workers to have a voice in decision-making.
Provides stability through consistent scheduling and advance notice of changes.
Offers healthcare, paid leave, and retirement security to support holistic well-being.
Removes barriers to entry and provides clear pathways for professional growth.
The guides provide businesses with actionable strategies across each of the five elements and include tools and resources to support implementation.
The Framework offers sample recommendations seeking regional partners to help improve job quality in the region.
Action steps organizations can take include:
Workforce Southwest Washington
Darcy Herrman, Director of Business Services
360.836.6498 | Email Darcy
Marketing solutions that align with workforce needs.
Diversity, inclusion, employee engagement, and retention practices.
Improving workplace culture and strengthening career pathways.
A family-owned farm focused on workforce development and growth.
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