National Skills Coalition

Networks - building a diverse "network of networks" of practitioners, businesses, workers, advocates and other stakeholders brought together in Coalition to help make state and federal workforce development policies more effective, inclusive and responsive to the changing needs of the economy. Examples include our National network across 35 states, our skillspan network of state coalitions, our business leaders united network for small and medium-sized businesses, and our voices for Skills campaign involving local workers. In addition to supporting these networks, we create opportunities for participating members to share their experiences and ideas for reform with state and local officials.

Government affairs: National Skills Coalition advocates for policies that lead to greater, more effective and more inclusive investments in the Skills of america's workforce.

Policy - analyzing and reporting on state and federal policies that impact the training and advancement options of u.s. workers. Conducting research about workforce development best practices implemented in collaboration with public sector partners. Raising awareness of specific Skills and employment challenges faced by different groups of workers, including those who are of low-income, have limited basic Skills, are discriminated against because of race, ethnicity or immigrant status, or are older and laid off from a job. Consulting with local workforce development practitioners and employers to identify potential reforms to improve the effectiveness of workforce development, adult education, higher education, and anti-poverty policies. Providing technical assistance to state and federal agencies so they might more effectively implement policies in such areas as data systems and performance measurement and industry partnership development.

Communications - raising public awareness of the importance of Skills training for the nation's economy and what more could be done through public policy to train millions of u.s. workers. Engaging the press and opinion makers on these issues, including creating opportunities for local stakeholders to share their experiences and ideas for reform. Conducting research on public opinion about Skills issues both nationally and in the states. Providing up-to-date information about workforce development policies and Skills issue more broadly across a variety of communications channels.

Lobbying: National Skills Coalition lobbies for legislation that leads to greater, more effective and more inclusive investments in the Skills of america's workforce.