Workforce Infrastructure
Charge
The “Workforce Infrastructure” Action Project Team will identify or develop a credit and noncredit program needs assessment tool, develop metrics to track COCC’s progress in supporting the workforce needs of our College district, and identify who regularly reviews data, making appropriate recommendations to Vice President of Academic Affairs. Anticipated work group start date: Winter or Spring 2024.
Advancing Workforce Alignment at COCC
Meeting Regional Needs with Strategic Innovation
In 2024, Central Oregon Community College (COCC) launched the Workforce Infrastructure Action Project Team with a clear mission: to develop tools that align the College’s educational programs with the evolving needs of Central Oregon’s economy.
Data-Driven Foundations
In February 2025, the team conducted an in-depth review of labor market insights from Lightcast, a global leader in workforce analytics. This analysis provided a critical foundation for making informed, data-driven decisions about program development at COCC.
One key outcome was the identification of strong demand for workforce training in fields such as:
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
- Sustainable Energy
Customized Tools to Identify Gaps
Building on this momentum, the team explored a customized Program Demand Gap Analysis (PDGA) tool tailored specifically for COCC. This tool helped identify where new or expanded programs could help fill regional skills gaps and meet employer needs.
Planning for Sustainable Impact
To turn insights into action, the team:
- Developed a detailed budget proposal to support implementation
- Created an implementation plan with clear success metrics, including:
- Employer satisfaction
- Student job placement
- Enrollment growth in high-demand programs
- Established a quarterly review process to track workforce trends and adjust curriculum accordingly
Institutional Commitment
In April 2025, the team presented its goals and findings to the COCC Board of Directors. The presentation highlighted achievements and introduced a sustainable model for workforce alignment.
The Board responded by unanimously approving the creation of a Workforce Advisory Council—a permanent group of industry leaders, faculty, and college staff tasked with providing ongoing guidance on curriculum development.
Shaping the Future of Workforce Education
The Workforce Infrastructure Action Project is transforming how COCC approaches program development—making it more agile, responsive, and grounded in the realities of today’s job market.
By fostering stronger connections between education and employment, COCC is preparing students for meaningful careers while playing a vital role in Central Oregon’s economic development.