Texas Association of Workforce Boards
Multifaceted Programs Enrich Workforce Professionals
Situation
The Texas Association of Workforce Boards (TAWB) was concerned about the quality
and consistency of workforce services provided throughout the state.TAWB issued a Request for Proposal to design a training system that would support the development of workforce professionals and lead to professional certification. At the culmination of the selection process, Learning Designs was chosen for the project.
Solution
Our team conducted a statewide job analysis that involved a myriad of interviews and focus groups
with more than 1,000 employees at 26 board locations.We identified universal and functional competencies required by individuals who work in 36 job clusters and nine distinct work functions throughout the state.
BAR Scales (Behaviorally-Anchored Rating Scales) were developed and validated to assess employee performance on each competency, and a draft curriculum was developed to provide training directly related to job performance.
The system was pilot tested late in 2004 with a learning management system (LMS) that allowed more than 1,500 Texas workforce system employees to participate in the project.
At the conclusion of the program, the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) issued a request for system implementation. Subsequently, we were awarded the project and began the implementation process.
Outcome
For the past three years, LDI has provided ongoing support for the development and delivery of training for
more than 1,100 employees in the Gulf Coast workforce system.In 2008, LDI provided 2,400 class seats to more than 1,000 employees who enrolled in multiple classes.
As part of our contract, we work closely with Board staff to stay abreast of policy changes and identify implications for training.