On October 23rd Chicago Jobs Council co-hosted the 4th annual Chicago Workforce Development Symposium in partnership with the Chicagoland Workforce Funders Alliance. Among the many great sessions of the day was a panel focused on public policy that I had the privilege to moderate. 

Discover how Opportunity@Work's insights on STARs (Skilled Through Alternative Routes) could reshape hiring practices in Chicago. Learn about the economic impact of degree requirements, initiatives to build a skills-based workforce, and next steps for fostering inclusivity and growth. Join the movement to 'Tear the Paper Ceiling' and unlock talent across industries."

Our member Workforce Convos series continues to spark critical conversations and generate actionable insights that shape the workforce development field. These events provide a platform for diverse voices—including policy experts, workforce leaders, and young adults—to share their perspectives and collaborate on solutions to pressing workforce challenges.

 At Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), our recent Workforce Convo highlighted key strategies for navigating this changed political landscape. While methods may evolve, our core values of equity, opportunity, and systemic change remain constant. Here are ten actionable takeaways from our conversation to help you stay mission-driven and impactful in the year ahead.

On October 9, 2024, the Chicago Jobs Council hosted a CJC Workforce Convo focused on Bridging Expectations: Enhancing Job Satisfaction and Retention for Young Workers. The event featured insights from workforce leaders, career coaches, and—most importantly—young adults themselves. The conversation centered on how we can better understand, support, and retain Gen Z workers, who bring a unique perspective and set of challenges to the workforce.

The discussion was both dynamic and thought-provoking, focusing on critical efforts to bridge the racial wealth gap. Despite the promising programs and pilot initiatives being considered, our conversation underscored the significant work that remains, particularly in addressing the deeper systemic issues exacerbating this gap in Chicago.