City of St. Louis Workforce Development Board, Inc.

Overview

The City of St. Louis Workforce Development Board, Inc. (WDB) is a nonprofit organization tasked with providing strategic leadership and oversight of workforce development programs in the City of St. Louis. The board's primary goal is to enhance the economic and labor market needs of the region by collaborating with public, private, and elected officials to develop a high-quality workforce.

Purpose and Responsibilities

The WDB serves as the governing entity overseeing programs implemented by the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE). These programs focus on upgrading basic and occupational skills for adults and youth while facilitating connections between job seekers and businesses. The board's vision is to create a vibrant regional economy where job seekers have the skills needed to match available jobs, and every job has a qualified employee.

Composition

The City of St. Louis Workforce Development Board must consist of at least 23 members, with no maximum number specified. A majority (51%) of the members must be representatives of local businesses, including owners, chief executives, or other business executives. Additionally, the board includes:

• Workforce Representatives: At least five members, including labor representatives, apprenticeship representatives, and those from organizations serving individuals with barriers to employment.
• Education and Training Representatives: Representatives from adult education and literacy, higher education institutions, and vocational rehabilitation programs.
• Governmental and Community Representatives: Representatives from economic development entities, the State employment service (Wagner-Peyser Act), and public assistance programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

Authorizing Legislation

The WDB's operations are guided by federal and state laws, primarily the Federal Workforce Investment Act (codified at 29 U.S.C. 3122) and Missouri Revised Statutes 620.511-620.513. The board also operates under its own bylaws.

Programs and Services

The WDB supports various programs aimed at fostering employment and skill development. These include initiatives for youth, assistance for veterans and individuals re-entering the workforce, and resources for job seekers. The board collaborates with SLATE to ensure these programs meet local workforce needs and align with broader economic development goals.