The Catawba Regional Workforce Development Board of Directors (Catawba WDB) was established in September 1999 with representatives appointed from Chester, Lancaster, and York Counties to strengthen the region’s workforce system and long-term economic resiliency. Authorized under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), the Board is responsible for stewarding WIOA funds and ensuring the development of a coordinated, responsive workforce development system that can adapt to changing economic conditions, labor market disruptions, and employer needs.

WIOA plays a critical role in building regional resilience by:

• Aligning workforce development programs with the evolving needs of both job seekers and employers

• Promoting accountability and transparency through measurable performance goals

• Encouraging regional collaboration across jurisdictions and service providers

• Strengthening the American Job Center system to respond effectively during economic transitions, workforce shortages, and recovery periods

On July 1, 2000, the Catawba Regional Council of Governments became the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program administrator for Chester, Lancaster, and York Counties. To implement the goals of WIOA and enhance workforce adaptability, the Council contracts with Equus Workforce Solutions to operate the region’s SC Works One-Stop Centers. These centers provide essential employment services, including job placement, career counseling, and skills training, helping workers re-enter the labor market, transition between industries, and upskill in response to economic change.

In addition to employment services, Equus delivers intensive training and support for under-skilled and displaced workers, strengthening the region’s ability to retain talent and recover from economic shocks. Council WIOA staff also collaborate with Communities in Schools and Adult Education programs to improve high school matriculation and credential attainment—key factors in building a resilient, future-ready workforce.

Vision and Goals Supporting Regional Resiliency

The Catawba WDB’s vision—“Partnering to develop and maintain a globally competitive workforce that enhances regional economic growth and quality of life”—directly supports regional resiliency by ensuring both workers and employers are prepared for economic change.

Employer Services Goals

• Improve ongoing understanding of employer workforce needs to anticipate labor market shifts

• Develop a reliable talent pipeline aligned with high-demand and emerging occupations

• Collaborate with partner agencies to improve communication and awareness of workforce services

• Expand access to innovative tools, such as the state-supported Brazen virtual job fair platform, to increase employer reach and continuity during disruptions

Job Seeker Services Goals

• Increase the number of qualified job seekers prepared for in-demand careers

• Improve soft skills and workplace readiness to enhance long-term employability

• Guide job seekers toward growing industries and resilient career pathways

• Continue collaboration with partner organizations to support individuals facing barriers to employment

• Expand technology-based service delivery to improve access, flexibility, and continuity

Workforce Services as a Resiliency Strategy

Access to workforce resources strengthens individual and regional resilience by connecting job seekers to employment, education, training, and support services. Skill development initiatives help workers adapt to changing job requirements and advance over time, while effective job matching supports employers in maintaining a stable and skilled workforce. Networking opportunities and career navigation tools further enhance resiliency by helping job seekers access community resources, build professional connections, and make informed career decisions that support long-term economic stability.