Work Ready Communities
Johnson County Public Library, Ind.
Innovation Synopsis
The Johnson County Public Library is partnering with Aspire Johnson County in the ACT® Work Ready Communities (WRC) initiative. This economic development program will make our county more competitive and close the skill gaps that exist locally. JCPL is a major partner by providing leadership, boots on the ground and resources.
Challenge/Opportunity
The ACT® Work Ready Communities initiative launched in Johnson County on January 23, 2019. To attain a WRC status, our county must achieve two goals within two years:
- Obtain support from 352 employers who acknowledge the program’s ability to spur economic development.
- Help 903 residents receive a National Career Readiness Certificate® (NCRC) using the WorkKeys® assessment available for free at all JCPL locations.
Once the county achieves these goals, opportunities for economic development will be magnified locally.
Key Elements of Innovation
ACT® WRC will empower our county with data, processes and tools that will drive economic growth. Residents who achieve a NCRC® can demonstrate their skill and close gaps by improving their skills. The program provides employers with a framework to profile positions, so they may link, align and match their workforce development efforts with the assessments of our residents. The NCRC® assessment and position profiling are provided at no cost to residents and businesses through the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
Achieved Outcomes
Residents may improve their scores and skills using WIN Career Readiness courseware. Businesses benefit from being a WRC because they can learn what foundational skills are needed for a productive workforce and can profile positions to align with WorkKeys® scoring. Educators can close skills gaps using industry-recognized credentials integrated into career paths. Economic developers and industry site selectors have an on-demand reporting tool to document and ascertain the quality of the local workforce.
