Benchmarks of Success Introductory Video Transcript - Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Secretary Kelly M. Schulz – On July 22, 2014, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, commonly referred to as WIOA, was signed into federal law. WIOA is designed to help jobseekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match businesses with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.

Maryland's Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State Plan serves as Governor Hogan’s blueprint for the creation of an effective and efficient workforce system. For the first time, Maryland has combined its workforce efforts across multiple agencies into one State Plan.

Department of Human Services Secretary Lourdes R. Padilla – We share Governor Hogan’s commitment to ensuring that all Maryland residents can benefit from the incredible education, employment, and training opportunities provided by Maryland’s Workforce System. And, we understand the necessity of building a collaborative network that supports the long-term success of the people we all serve.

State Superintendent of Schools, Maryland State Department of Education Karen B. Salmon, Ph.D – In order to guide Maryland’s WIOA Workforce System Partners in this work, the Benchmarks of Success for Maryland’s Workforce System* establishes a clear vision, goals, and measurable achievements that will help us gauge our success as we work to lay the foundation of this new system.

Governor's Workforce Development Board Executive Director Michael R. DiGiacomo – In keeping with Maryland’s commitment to place “people before performance,” our strategic goals and corresponding benchmarks are focused around a central vision of increasing the earning capacity of Marylanders by maximizing their access to employment, skills and credentialing, life management skills, and supportive services.

Secretary Schulz – The goals and benchmarks are more than mere measures. They provide a way of thinking systematically about how we deliver services. They reflect Maryland’s dedication to focusing its efforts on the people who need the system’s assistance the most.

Secretary Padilla – We know that good jobs—and by good jobs we mean skills-based, long-term employment—are vital to helping Maryland residents secure independence for themselves and their families.

Superintendent Salmon – The five strategic goals and related measures outlined in the Benchmarks of Success intentionally set a high bar. They are meant to be used as a leadership tool that guides strategic conversations and defines a set of achievements for the workforce system to commit to strive toward in our collective work, to improve the lives of Marylanders.

GWBD Executive Director DiGiacomo – Stay tuned for more in-depth videos where we will be discussing in detail the Benchmarks of Success for the Workforce System.