Building a Stronger Workforce

Delaware’s path to success in 2025

BY JOANNA STAIB

AS WE ENTER ANOTHER NEW YEAR, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the achievements of the Delaware Workforce Development Board (DWDB) in 2024 and look forward to the opportunities that 2025 will bring. This year has been marked by significant progress in workforce development, driven by an environment of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and accountability and a shared commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and strategic alignment with Delaware’s economic priorities.

This past year was a transformative one for DWDB as we focused on enhancing programs to better meet the needs of job seekers and employers. A key accomplishment was the launch of the Delaware Career Mobility app in partnership with Tech Impact. The app is a cutting-edge platform that connects individuals with access to real-time information on skills development as well as educational and training programs, making it easier for Delawareans to connect to programs and pursue new career opportunities in high-demand industries.

The Delaware Workforce Development Board undertook the critical task of a new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a four-year state plan created in collaboration with stakeholders statewide to shape a cohesive strategy. This plan sets a foundation for strengthening Delaware’s workforce by aligning programs across key industries and agencies, advancing opportunities for all, and driving innovative solutions to meet current and future labor demands. The vision is to bring all workforce initiatives under one central hub, like the DWDB, to enable a true collaborative systems approach. The key to this approach is to align education, industry, and community partners to create a more integrated and responsive workforce development ecosystem.

Looking further into 2025, the DWDB is committed to deepening the collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure that Delaware remains a hub for innovation, workforce excellence, and economic development. This means expanding our business engagement efforts, particularly in high growth, high demand sectors like construction and skilled trades, health care, financial technology (fintech), logistics, and clean energy, which are expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

A primary focus will be on further integrating technology into the workforce system. As automation and artificial intelligence reshape industries, the DWDB will collaborate with educational institutions and employers to create curricula to equip workers with the essential digital skills for the future. Additionally, the Board is developing a benefits cliff tool, with the support of Tech Impact, to help individuals make informed decisions about career advancement while understanding how increased earnings may impact their public assistance benefits. This tool will assist caseworkers, frontline staff policymakers, and business leaders to better understand how wage increases or promotions could affect benefits.

An exciting development on the horizon is the scaling of work-based learning opportunities. By strengthening partnerships with Delaware businesses and educational institutions, we plan to increase apprenticeships, co-ops, and internship positions. These opportunities will not only benefit young professionals entering the workforce but also mid-career workers looking to pivot into new industries.

The DWDB will continue to ensure that all Delawareans have access to the resources and support they need to thrive in today’s economy. We will enhance efforts that specifically address the barriers faced by underserved populations, including rural communities, the justice-impacted, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

The DWDB is pleased with the progress made and excited about the future. By continuing to innovate, collaborate, and prioritize transparency and accountability, we are confident that 2025 will be a year of even greater success. Together, we will ensure that Delaware’s workforce remains competitive, resilient, and ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Joanna Staib is the executive director of the Delaware Workforce Development Board.