Workforce and Economic Development Master Plan

The 2020-25 Workforce Development Plan was developed with thoughtful connection to the DVC Educational Master Plan and the college's commitment to equity. The Workforce Development unit has infused the current college goals of Connection, Entry, Through & Out into the strategies and activities to meet students' needs and assist their preparation for meaningful, self-sustaining employment. The WFD unit will foster the work of the college to create and sustain cultural and structural conditions that support student learning.

This plan represents the continued growth and evolution of DVC's workforce and economic development efforts. The plan will guide our work over the next five years as we serve DVC students, staff and faculty, as well as regional partners and local businesses. As a result of the Strong Workforce Program (SWP) and an increased emphasis on student success metrics, the WFD Office will evaluate its organizational structure to align college and industry efforts through contextualized career development and enhanced access to jobs and internships for students. The plan demands that we continue to move toward an increased level of collaboration, data-driven decision making, and coordination, all coming together to support a thriving local economy and ensure that student succeed in career and life.  This plan will guide the Workforce Development unit in partnership with the Career Education faculty and staff in:

  • Expedite the development and alignment of Career Education curriculum and processes in response to workforce technologies and trends within the local and regional labor market.
  • Increase alignment, coordination and accessibility of DVC Career Education Programs with K-12, Adult Education, community-based organizations (CBO's) and other external partners to deliver programs and support services to ensure student success
  • Strengthen partnership with business and industry to prepare students for work in their field of study to assist students in gaining meaningful, self-sustaining employment.
  • Evaluate and enhance existing college resources and infrastructure within Guided Pathways - strengthen integration of student services, instruction and learning community resources, and infuse career exploration and readiness across the institution to support students' success through the college and into employment.