Who We Are

About WDB NNJ

Welcome to the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey (WDB NNJ), we are dedicated to shaping a brighter future through strategic workforce development initiatives. As a leading force in the region, we empower individuals, businesses, and communities by bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.

As a public workforce system,

WDB NNJ serves as a vital link, connecting employers, job seekers, educators, and community partners across Morris, Sussex, and Warren Counties. Our primary mission is to develop strategic workforce plans that address the critical talent needs of the region.

At WDB NNJ,

we are more than just a workforce development board; we are a center for comprehensive supportive services. Our offerings include career counseling, training programs, job placement assistance, youth services, labor market information, and dedicated business services. We are committed to providing high-quality career training that equips individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in today's competitive job market.

We understand

that businesses play a pivotal role in the vitality of our communities. That's why WDB NNJ offers financial support to businesses, addressing their hiring and training needs. Our funding opportunities are designed to foster economic growth and create a thriving environment for both employers and employees.

One of our key strengths

lies in our ability to facilitate connections and collaborations. We bring together diverse stakeholders to create effective workforce solutions, ensuring that our programs align with the evolving needs of the community. As stewards of the tri-county workforce development system, WDB NNJ takes on the responsibility of planning, offering policy guidance, and providing oversight to guarantee the success of our initiatives.

Our Mission

At the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey (WDB NNJ), our mission is to cultivate a skilled and competitive workforce seamlessly aligned with the current and future needs of our local economy. We are dedicated to enhancing the success of our communities through thoughtful planning, data collection, and the continuous improvement of programs and services.
To achieve this mission, WDB NNJ actively engages in collaborative partnerships, believing in the power of working together with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations. By cultivating strong connections, we create a network that supports comprehensive workforce solutions, ensuring our strategies are grounded in the diverse needs of our region.
Our commitment extends to tailored programs designed to address the unique needs of both job seekers and employers. From skills training to career counseling, we provide personalized services that empower individuals to achieve their professional goals. Our approach is not one-size-fits-all; it's about understanding and meeting the distinct requirements of our community members and businesses.
In navigating a rapidly evolving job market, we adopt a data-driven approach. Staying ahead requires insights, and we leverage data and market intelligence to identify emerging trends. This commitment ensures that our programs remain not only relevant but also effective in addressing the evolving demands of industries in our region.
Our ultimate goal is to integrate area employment, training, and supportive services into a consumer-based, market-driven system. This approach guarantees that our programs are not only responsive to the needs of both job seekers and employers but also create a framework that is effective, adaptable, and impactful.
Join us on this mission to build a workforce system that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the local economy. At WDB NNJ, we are dedicated to shaping a future where skills and opportunities converge, fostering sustained success for individuals, businesses, and the community.
Explore our website to discover more about the impactful programs and services we offer, and let's collaborate towards a skilled and competitive future.

Our Evolving Legacy: A Brief History

The Workforce Development Boards (WDBs) trace their origins back to 1995 when they were initially established in New Jersey as Workforce Investment Boards, a significant milestone marked by Executive Order #36 signed by Governor Christine Todd Whitman. Policy makers recognized the critical need to empower local boards with the authority to comprehensively evaluate gaps in labor market workforce readiness and propose policies that enhance the effectiveness and quality of the workforce.

From their inception, WDBs have been steadfast in their commitment to streamline federal, state, and local workforce readiness policies into a unified system, driven by the dynamic demands of the labor market. This dedication ensures the efficient delivery of essential services in a cost-effective manner, making a tangible impact on the communities they serve.

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The WDB’s principal funding source is the Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014. Additionally, the Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey (WDB NNJ) secures funds from Work First New Jersey, the state’s welfare-to-work program. This multi-faceted funding approach allows WDB NNJ to diversify its initiatives and respond effectively to the diverse needs of the community.

A testament to WDB NNJ's commitment to holistic community support is the Pathways to Recovery Grant, awarded to provide supportive services and employment opportunities to individuals affected by opioids. This grant, active from July 1, 2023, to June 20, 2024, exemplifies WDB NNJ's proactive stance in addressing critical community challenges and contributing to the overall well-being of those in need.

As we reflect on our history, we recognize the dynamic nature of workforce development and the transformative impact WDB NNJ has had on the communities it serves. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative partnerships, we remain committed to evolving with the ever-changing landscape of workforce readiness, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for all.

Explore more about our ongoing initiatives and community impact on our website. Your journey towards a skilled and competitive future starts here.

Explore our website to discover the array of programs, services, and resources that WDB NNJ offers.

Whether you are a job seeker, employer, or community partner, we invite you to be part of our mission to shape the future of workforce
development in Northwest New Jersey.