A project to assist the Silicon Valley Workforce Investment Network (SVWIN) in determining what WIA services to make available to youth. As part of this effort, BPA identified trends in employment and education for low-income youth. The BPA team conducted a series of youth focus groups, community roundtables, and individual stakeholder interviews that provided qualitative data related the greater San Jose/Silicon Valley area. BPA worked closely with the Center for Employment Training of San Jose (CET) to collect data and develop recommendations that were relevant to this region.

Based on findings and key issues identified in the first phase of the project, BPA conducted a targeted search of published literature and technical assistance documents to identify best practices with which the SVWIN might address these issues. Interviews with national policy experts supplemented this search. Identification of service gaps were also included in our final report.

The project culminated with a series of presentations to key stakeholders and a detailed policy report. The results of this study will enable the SVWIN to engage in a well-informed strategic planning process that will guide its resource allocation and policymaking for years to come.

Publications:

Silicon Valley Workforce Investment Network Youth Services Project: Final Report (Nov 30, 2005)
A report on the comprehensive analysis of the trends in employment opportunities and service needs of low-income youth who live in the workforce board's service area.