Raise the Bar Hancock County

Workforce pathways: employee recruitment and retention requires commitment to a process of inclusion and continuous people development. We avocate for Hancock County's employers to build their talent using all workforce pathways, spanning direct-to-employment, apprenticeships, college, internal candidates, military experience, certifications, and other avenues. Additionally, we encourage employers to provide clear guidance on position expectations and required expertise to empower individuals to pursue their desired profession through efficient, affordable training. We aim for Hancock County's employers to access a skilled and diverse workforce.

Employability skill development: employability skills can improve work productivity, decrease skills gaps, and increase employment rates. By equipping youth and adults with core transferrable skills, we aim for Hancock County to be the place where people become the best version of themselves and find financial stability.

Career exposure: transformation requires exposure to people and ideas. That is why we are committed to cultivating meaningful interactions between individuals and workplaces. Our efforts begin as early as kindergarten, sparking conversations, and igniting curiosity. Through ongoing support into adolescence and adulthood, we guide individuals on a journey of exploration and immersion, encouraging discovery of passions and potential career paths. Ultimately, we aim to expand horizons and highlight the wide range of opportunity right here in Hancock County.

Stakeholder engagement: we partner with employers, education providers, social services, and policymakers to collectively indentify and understand workforce challenges as well as co-envision solutions that build essential trust and support.