NJ Department of Labor Awards $3 Million in Grants to Manage Ten Talent Networks in the Garden State’s Key Industries

On Jan 12, 2018

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (LWD) has named the awardees of a $3 million grant that will oversee 10 Talent Networks, as well as a technology consultant, ensuring that current and future New Jersey workers are equipped with the skills employers identify as critical to the success of the state’s key industries.

“These institutions have made a solid commitment and presented progressive plans toward building the partnerships and programs that will keep New Jersey as one of the leading innovators in workforce development in the world,” said Aaron R. Fichtner, Ph.D., Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Labor.

Launched in 2011, Talent Networks are considered the “architects” that meet with business and organizations to gather firsthand intelligence on the industry and assess their needs. Talent Networks share that information with the Talent Development Centers, considered the “builders,” who then develop curriculum and instruction programs based on information from business. Together, this Talent Development System, comprising both the Talent Networks and the Talent Development Centers, align training and education with in-demand skills, making New Jersey’s economy stronger than ever. To support these efforts, the technology consultant will provide expertise on the technology needs for each Talent Network.

Talent Networks are part of the ‘65 by 25: Many Paths, One Future’ initiative, working to build a skilled, competitive workforce by helping New Jerseyans find pathways to careers. This collaborative effort of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the Department of Education, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education is focused on increasing the percentage of New Jersey adults who have earned an industry-valued post-secondary credential or degree from 50 percent to 65 percent by 2025.

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