Capital Area Workforce Development (CAWD) is a public-private partnership that focuses on economic development by ensuring the local workforce has the skills, training and education needed for employers in Wake and Johnston counties. Our mission is to create and maintain a highly effective workforce system, known as NCWorks. The system provides employers with productive, skilled workers while simultaneously offering citizens training and employment opportunities that promote job satisfaction and economic stability. Successful workforce planning is an active, ongoing, dynamic process that must be repeated and adjusted often based on local and regional economic conditions. The process involves collaboration and information sharing among the education, economic development, and business communities to meet these goals: • Bring the voice of business to the table in every talent-related initiative • Facilitate employment success for adults and youth • Enhance regional competitiveness CAWD's Board reflects the collaborative nature of workforce development. Fifty-one percent (51%) represent the private sector. The remaining members come from secondary and post-secondary education, community-based organizations, public employment service, economic development, vocational rehabilitation service, public assistance service, and organized labor. Workforce solutions help businesses that are not just focused on the preparation and recruiting of new talent, but also in the continuing development of workers at all stages of their careers. The expertise that board members bring is essential to creating the best solutions for businesses and our citizens.