What is the State of the Workforce in Nevada County? That was the topic at two separate discussions in Grass Valley and Nevada City. Attendees included elected officials, as well as representatives from social services, adult education, the office of education, and other related organizations. A consulting group hired by the Alliance for Workforce Development took input. Assistant Director Luis Moreno says one main focus was identifying the most significant economic opportunities and challenges impacting business. He says there are a lot of higher-tech job opportunities already available, with more on the way. But he says there aren’t enough skilled workers….

click to listen to Luis Moreno

Moreno says health care was identified as another strong job opportunity. He also cited Nevada County’s relatively low unemployment rate, which is usually around 5-percent….

click to listen to Luis Moreno

Moreno says another challenge is attracting businesses and job opportunities that are compatible with the rural, small-community lifestyle of the county. The information gathered is being used to create a workforce development action plan that’s expected to be released in October, or sometime in the fall.