Kentucky part of national governors workforce project

Kentucky’s participation is expected to have a positive impact for those involved in Gov. Beshear’s Everybody Counts initiative.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Kentucky is one of 11 states selected to participate in the first phase of a National Governors Association workforce project whose goal is to develop a digital database to help employers match their needs with the skills of job seekers.

“We are excited about the opportunity to be a national leader in developing projects that can help prepare our workforce for the demands and opportunities of the future,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “The workforce and workplace are quickly changing, and we want to be at the forefront of states that are developing innovative practices to connect skills-based training and employment practices.”

The NGA Center describes learning and employment records as digital resumes that can help job seekers maintain and share a secure, verifiable and readily accessible record of their skills, educational experiences and work histories.  It also may help employers uncover hidden talent that better matches their workforce needs. Kentucky’s participation is expected to have a positive impact for those involved in Gov. Beshear’s Everybody Counts initiative.

It was launched last year as a pilot program involving Jefferson County Public Schools with plans to expand throughout the state.  The goal of Everybody Counts is to provide an opportunity for every graduating high school senior in Jefferson County Public Schools to secure one of three pathways: a job at one of four participating companies (Kroger, GE Appliances, Ford and UPS), two years of free tuition at a postsecondary school or both.

The governor has dedicated $5 million each in 2023 and 2024 to expand the program.

“A big piece of our economic development is having workers who have the right skills for businesses that are expanding or making Kentucky home,” sad Education and Labor Cabinet Secretary Jamie Link.  “With Learning and Employment Records, job seekers are able to present, record and share their skills and achievements with employers, who can use this great tool to recruit the best person for their job openings.”

The state reported record economic development in 2021.  Private-sector, new-location and expansion announcements included $11.2 billion in total planned investment, and commitments to create a record 18,000-plus full-time jobs in the coming years.  The Governor’s office says that momentum continues in 2022.