Poster #61 - Insights into the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: A Wisconsin Case Study

• In Event: Friday Poster Reception

Abstract

The 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federally funded, state-administered law that helps job seekers overcome employment barriers and matches employers to skilled workers to improve workforce outcomes across the U.S. WIOA provides clients direct assistance in obtaining jobs, training, education, and support services to succeed in the labor market. WIOA requires coordination and integration of sectors contributing to a state’s larger workforce strategy and infrastructure including local workforce development boards, technical and community colleges, employers, and other federally funded programs. “One-stop” job centers deliver WIOA programs, offering a centralized mechanism where clients can access integrated services, search for jobs, and get referrals. However, prior research suggests challenges in this complex, multilayered system affecting implementation, take-up, and effectiveness in meeting clients’ and employers’ needs.  

In this study, the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Institute for Research on Poverty partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to gain insight into strategies to achieve WIOA goals. Study aims focused on: (1) examining the coordination and alignment of required and non-required workforce partners to maximize benefits for clients and employers; (2) understanding challenges and opportunities to braid funding streams to improve services and outcomes; and (3) identifying opportunities to streamline clients’ and employers’ experiences. We conducted semi-structured interviews with four key groups including workforce development board directors and one-stop operators (N=17), direct service staff (N=14), employers (N=3), and clients (N=26) in four of Wisconsin’s 11 workforce development areas selected for regional diversity and population variation.   

Using content analysis, we identified several preliminary themes. Across board directors, one-stop operators, and direct service staff, the deep dedication to help clients find employment is evident. However, shrinking budgets, onerous and duplicative documentation requirements, and strict limitations on allowable support services limit the efficacy and scope of services. Some board directors pursue other grants and creative solutions to address gaps, while others have become deeply skeptical of WIOA’s usefulness. Direct service providers note that the system is overly complex and integration of service delivery is difficult, especially when services are not in the same location. Despite constraints, most staff, from direct service staff to board directors, are optimistic about the impact and importance of WIOA programming. 

The optimism and dedication of staff are reflected in clients’ evaluation of services. Clients overwhelmingly reported that the job centers were helpful, supportive places where they felt respected. Many cited WIOA centers as critical for finding jobs or accessing education and training, though the ability to help clients varied according to client needs and circumstances. Job centers often could not do something substantive – such as when the client has a history of incarceration – though the welcoming environment still satisfied clients.  

By incorporating perspectives from key stakeholders, this study highlights opportunities for local, state, and federal government to better streamline the WIOA system. As service providers strive to address the diverse and often conflicting needs of businesses and jobseekers, promoting innovation and supporting fair and inclusive policies suggest promise, especially for populations with significant barriers to employment. 

Authors

• Jamie Koenig, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Presenting Author

• David J Pate, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Hilary M Shager, Institute for Research on Poverty
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Marci Ybarra, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Liesl Hostetter, Institute for Research on Poverty
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Grace Landrum-Hall, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Sarah A Wesela, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  Non-Presenting Co-Author