Rea Easton

The board discussed the 2024-2027 Combined State Plan Modification, established a new Workforce Development Grant Program committee structure, and reviewed accounting reports regarding available grant funds. Presentations were held for several Workforce Development Grant proposals. Additionally, the board received updates on Adult Education programming at Metropolitan Community College, the federal Workforce Pell Grant program, and approved the 2026 meeting dates.

This statewide landscape assessment for the Nebraska Department of Labor informs the state's workforce strategy under the Governor's Good Life, Great Careers Initiative. It aims to understand existing programs, employer needs, and identify areas for improved alignment and coordination. Key findings highlight an extensive but fragmented workforce ecosystem and a robust education pipeline. The assessment prioritizes addressing high labor demand in sectors like healthcare and construction, expanding Registered Apprenticeships with a goal to add 6,000 new apprentices by 2030, adapting to AI-driven training needs, and improving employer-education partnerships. It emphasizes the need for better coordination, regional responsiveness, and increased engagement with small businesses to ensure Nebraskans have access to quality careers.

This Combined State Plan for Nebraska's Workforce System outlines the vision for the state's public workforce and talent development from 2024 to 2027, with a 2026 modification. It includes an analysis of economic conditions, workforce data, and strategic elements, encompassing WIOA core programs and various optional partner programs. The plan aims to prepare a skilled workforce, support economic growth, and address critical challenges such as labor force expansion, qualifications, wage needs, work availability, and childcare, particularly for individuals facing barriers to employment, through strategies like career pathway development.

The meeting covered several significant business items. Discussions included the submission timeline and schedule for the Program Year 2026 modification of the Combined State Plan. The Board established a new committee structure for the Workforce Development Grant Program, proposing a Regional Grant Review Committee and an Industry Grant Review Committee to initially review grant proposals. Financial reporting detailed that $3.88 million is available for the 2026 grant program, noting legislated transfers and an anticipated shortfall. Five organizations presented their Workforce Development Grant proposals seeking funding for various initiatives aimed at workforce readiness, job placement, and supporting new Americans. Additionally, there was a presentation on Title II Adult Education programming at Metropolitan Community College concerning its role in preparing adults for post-secondary education and reducing employer skill gaps. An update was provided on the federal Workforce Pell Grant program, which will expand eligibility to short-term job training programs starting July 1, 2026. Finally, the Board approved the proposed meeting dates for the 2026 calendar year.

The meeting agenda included key items such as the 2024-2027 Combined State Plan Modification, structure for the Workforce Development Grant Program Committee, accounting procedures for the grant program, and presentations of workforce development grant proposals from Heart Ministry Center and Lincoln Literacy. Discussions also covered Adult Education Programming at MCC and the proposed Workforce Pell Grant. Furthermore, the Board reviewed and approved proposed dates for the 2026 Board meetings and discussed modifications to the Board bylaws relating to subcommittee disbandment and the new Workforce Development Program Cash Fund established by LB265. The September 19, 2025 meeting minutes were also approved.