In this episode, we dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and explore how businesses in Ventura County can harness its transformative power. Discover the common misconceptions about AI and learn how to navigate the practical challenges of adoption. Gain insights into the critical role of the human element in successful AI implementation and uncover strategies for equitable integration across your organization. Whether you're a seasoned tech leader or just starting to explore AI's potential, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Join Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, as he discusses how education and industry work together to create career opportunities in Ventura County. Learn about the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) Career Education Center programs in healthcare, transportation, welding, and veterinary assistance. Discover how local education systems partner with employers to provide work experience and internships for students. Dr. Morales shares insights on workforce development and explains how education serves as a bridge between job seekers and employers in Ventura County.

In this episode, you'll learn about a new program in Ventura County called "Sowing Seeds of Success," designed to support farmworkers. The program offers essential job skills training, career coaching, and language learning through a mobile platform, making it accessible for workers with busy schedules. You'll hear about the program's goals, eligibility requirements, and how it addresses challenges like time constraints and language barriers. The discussion covers the role of employers and community organizations in providing work-based learning opportunities and career advancement. You'll also discover how the program uses technology to deliver content and provide coaching support. Lastly, you'll find out how community members and businesses can get involved in supporting and strengthening this initiative for farmworkers.

In this episode of Ventura County Works, host Doug Foresta is joined by Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, and Celia Sandhya Daniels, a dedicated board member. The conversation focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, with a specific emphasis on the LGBTQ+ community. Celia, a transgender woman and entrepreneur, shares her personal experiences and insights on promoting true inclusion in organizations. The discussion covers topics such as the importance of allyship, moving beyond performative actions, fostering compassion for trans and gender-expansive communities, and the future of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workforce. 

Discover exciting career opportunities in advanced manufacturing and technology with Job Connect Ventura County. In this episode, Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, and Crystal Murillo from Career TEAM discuss how this innovative program, funded by the state of California, connects job seekers with education, training, and skill development to meet the needs of local employers. Learn about the focus on manufacturing and technology sectors, the support provided by career coordinators, and the flexibility of the program designed to accommodate working students.

Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, continues her discussion with Cynthia Avila, Business Solutions Manager. They explore the breadth of services offered to local businesses, including the HR hotline for no-cost human resources assistance. Other business solutions highlighted include tax credits, customized training programs, job fairs, and webinars on relevant workforce topics. Cynthia spotlights the value of the workforce board as a conduit, linking employers to partners and resources countywide. Rebecca wraps up by urging all regional businesses, large and small, to connect with the workforce board to discover how they can be supported.

This episode features a conversation between Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, and Cynthia Avila, Business Solutions Manager at the Workforce Development Board. They discuss the business solutions team at the workforce board, including how the team connects job seekers to good opportunities with local employers. Cynthia provides examples of recent job fairs and open house recruitments hosted by the team, as well as advice for businesses and job seekers to utilize the services of the workforce board. Rebecca also highlights the workforce board's partnerships with community organizations and previews upcoming initiatives and events.

In this episode, Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, is joined by James Hughes, Regional Director of Operations for Career Team LLC.  James describes Career Team's human-centered approach to workforce development, meeting customers where they are and helping remove barriers to employment. He discusses innovating ways to expand access and opportunities in communities, as well as Career Team's track record of success across the country. The local Career Team staff is also introduced as transitioning to take over these critical workforce services in Ventura County in partnership with organizations like the Workforce Development Board.

In this episode, you'll learn about SkillUp Ventura County, a free electronic training (eTraining) experience through Metrix Learning. Through this online learning portal, you will be able to refresh your existing skills and learn new ones that will help ensure your success in the ever-changing employment market. SkillUp Ventura County is designed to help its residents build a workforce ecosystem that supports positive economic development. Job seekers can explore career pathways, view local job postings, register for free online learning, and receive workforce services. Employers can search for qualified candidates, post jobs, and receive in-depth consulting to address hiring and training needs.

In this episode, you'll hear about 2 exciting services: the Ventura County Works Hub and the Virtual Hiring Board.