NE Wyoming Communities Focus on Workforce

Attracting and retaining a suitable workforce has become a critical factor for communities and businesses across the country. Northeastern Wyoming has numerous institutions dedicated to enhancing the abilities of local businesses through workforce development. Additionally, there is much local communities can do to build on those efforts. This fall is a perfect time to highlight the possibilities in Northeastern Wyoming today.

NE Wyoming Focus

Northeastern Wyoming has two community college districts for local students and employees - Gillette College and Sheridan College.

Gillette College became Wyoming’s newest community college district as the Gillette Community College District in 2021. Workforce development has been a priority at Gillette College with degree and certificate programs since 1969. Today, it offers over thirty academic programs and certificates online and in-person, in high-demand careers in Cyber Security, Nursing and numerous technical career fields.   

With locations in Sheridan and Buffalo, Sheridan College offers certificate and degree programs and general education courses transferable to other institutions. Popular academic programs include Nursing and Certified Nursing Assistant, Cyber Security, Diesel Technology, Machine Tool Technology and the Weekend Welding Certificate, which allows entry-level instruction for individuals to become entry-level welders in under a year. 

Climb Wyoming helps single mothers discover self-sufficiency through career training and placement while simultaneously working to meet the needs of Wyoming employers. Since 1986, it has trained and placed more than 2,000 women in higher-paying careers, leading them and their families to self-sufficiency and economic security. Locations throughout the state focus on jobs in Medical and Professional Office and Certified Medical or Nursing Assistant programs. The Gillette office offers a Commercial Driving License program, helping single moms get truck driving jobs in one of the nation’s most in-demand job markets with competitive wages, local routes and daytime schedules. 

The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services has programs for job seekers regardless of employment status.

What Can Communities Do?

Beyond the specific institutions above, communities can take numerous steps to help businesses attract their workforce.

Build a culture

People want to relocate somewhere that will feel like home. A positive culture and sense of place are necessary for people to relate. Community events, volunteerism campaigns, community organizations, and family-friendly activities tell a story. They tell a story about the culture of a community. Community leaders and stakeholders should audit these events, organizations, and activities to determine what they say about a community’s culture and what changes could be made. For example, suppose a community wants to have a family-friendly culture. In that case, there needs to be events throughout the year for young families, service organizations that cater to them, and groups in place to support them.

Focus on quality of life

Quality of life initiatives are essential for communities trying to expand their workforce. These initiatives can range from simple things like installing play equipment in local parks to significant undertakings like building bike trails for athletically minded people. The key is to identify what will make the biggest impact, create a plan, and begin working towards its implementation. 

Tell a story

What is life like in your community? The best way for someone to find out is for people who already live there to tell their story. Through blogs, videos, and social posts, individuals and families can talk about their lives and what makes it so enjoyable. By sharing different perspectives and personal stories, others can begin to imagine their life if they move to your area. 

PRECorp Can Help Your Community Focus on Workforce

We can help you create a cohesive culture to improve your community’s quality of life. Northeastern Wyoming is an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family. Contact us today for help telling your story!