WorkForce Central

05/21/2026

Over the past two years, David Pina and Cassandra Pina of VetConnect have been delivering ASIST (Applied Su***de Intervention Skills Training) to behavioral health practitioners across Pierce County. This year, they continue to provide training of the complex, and sensitive subject of su***de intervention.

Conducted in person over two full days, the training is intensive and immersive, incorporating role play and guided debriefing to build real-world skills and confidence.

More than 50 behavioral health practitioners from organizations across Pierce County, including Joint Base Lewis-McChord, have completed the training. Participants serve in hospitals, high schools, post-secondary institutions, crisis response, and local jurisdictions.

One participant shared: “The ASIST training was one of the most impactful trainings I have attended in the past 10 years (no exaggeration).”

We’re grateful for this continued partnership with VetConnect and the life-saving work of David and Cassandra, helping ensure people in crisis are met with care, confidence, and compassion.

Learn more about your Behavioral Health Initiatives on our website: https://workforce-central.org/behavioral-health/

05/15/2026

Jolita Perez, Manager of System, Workforce, and Student Development at MultiCare Health System, brings valuable experience in job placement, enrollment, and healthcare to our board. Her expertise and insights help strengthen connections between education, workforce development, and the healthcare sector.

The Pierce County Workforce Development Board is a business-led council of community leaders representing the public, private, and philanthropic sectors. They volunteer their time and expertise to help build a stronger workforce for Pierce County.

Learn more about our board on our website: https://workforce-central.org/about/our-leadership/

05/11/2026

More than 14,000 young people in Pierce County, about 1 in 8 ages 16–24, are not working or in school. Despite years of economic growth and workforce investment across Pierce County, this rate hasn’t changed in over a decade. Our new report examines where disconnected young adults live, who they are, and what barriers stand between them and stable employment or education.

This report examines the experiences of the more than 14,000 disconnected young adults in Pierce County and the systems shaping their access to work and education.

05/05/2026

04/30/2026

Learn more about Elizabeth Allen, Behavioral Health Policy Coordinator at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, and her experience working in the behavioral health field. Watch the full video on our website: https://workforce-central.org/2026/04/30/behavioral-health-elizabeth-allen/

04/29/2026

Learn how apprenticeship is strengthening Pierce County’s workforce and creating real career pathways in our latest article.

National Apprenticeship Week is here, and for Pierce County, this is more than a national celebration. It is a reminder of something we already know locally:

04/23/2026

Such an amazing day at Collaboration for a Cause! People are connecting with employers, interviewing for jobs, and getting hired! Community organizations are also here sharing about resources and services for basic needs, health, education, and training.

A huge thank you to our sponsors United Way of Pierce County, Sound Transit, TAPCO Credit Union, Pierce Transit, and Coordinated Care for your support in making this event possible.

04/23/2026

We’re live at Collaboration for a Cause!

04/21/2026

After receiving a grant through the Community Reinvestment Fund from WorkForce Central in 2024 that helped modernize their space and strengthen customer engagement, Fresh Squeeze Juice Bar continued that momentum by expanding their team through on-the-job training. The earlier investment supported the business to grow, creating new roles and pathways for local workers to gain hands-on experience.

By participating in an earn‑while‑you‑learn model, Fresh Squeeze was able to bring on and train team members during a critical growth period while managing rising labor costs. This support helped the business retain employees, provide meaningful, hands-on training, and maintain consistent service without cutting hours or overextending its budget. One employee, Alyssa, demonstrated strong growth in confidence, efficiency, and customer service, contributing to the strong team environment.

By pairing business investments with workforce development support, Fresh Squeeze Juice Bar continues to grow responsibly creating jobs, developing skills, and strengthening its impact in the South Hill Puyallup community.

Thank you to the Washington State Department of Commerce for partnering with Local Workforce Boards on the Community Reinvestment Program that supports small businesses and provides opportunities for them to grow.

04/16/2026

At Collaboration for a Cause attendees can explore job opportunities and connect with local resources from across the Puget Sound. Please share this post with your networks!

Collaboration for a Cause is just one week away! Explore job opportunities and connect with local resources at this one-stop community event.

Come interview ready and stop by our resume help station for support. Don’t miss our free workshops designed to help you grow your skills and open new doors.

This event is completely FREE to attend, and everyone is welcome!

Register today! https://pccetf.org/calendar/collaboration-for-a-cause-regional-opportunity-fair/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=cfac_apr26&utm_content=event_post