Oklahoma Department of Commerce

PROJECT PURPOSE

We are looking to expand Workforce Development services throughout Oklahoma with the creation of four (4) mobile workforce centers. Several partner programs within the Workforce Development system have acknowledged the difficulty faced when trying to provide services to individuals living in rural geographies. The creation of mobile workforce centers would allow the workforce system to provide services to an increased number of Oklahomans providing a solution to barriers such as transportation and internet access. The mobile units will be available for use by partner programs and customers of the workforce system alike expanding the system?s reach and impact significantly.

EVIDENCE

Testimony from Workforce Development leadership in other states verifies that this solution not only brought previously unreachable people into the workforce but also provided a mechanism for multiple agencies to partner together to make a difference. Several state's utilize mobile units including Kansas and Texas.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The focus of the Workforce Development activities we offer targets populations with identified barriers to employment. The mobile centers will more strategically target those individuals living in rural areas. The programs also serve business customers, including small businesses often found in rural communities.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Project performance will be measured by an increase in the number of individuals and businesses served across the state. The project data will be collected using the state's existing workforce case management system. The system will allow us to analyze the number of individuals served by each of the mobile units, and track their outcomes.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma