Federal Investments in Workforce Development Prove Effective

Although the results of an experimental evaluation of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) are not yet available, several rigorous evaluations conducted since 2000 have shown that workforce development programs boost employment rates, earnings, and labor force participation for participants. Some evidence also suggests that children of mothers without postsecondary education improve their language skills when their mothers undergo additional education or training. Some of the most promising new investments include sector-focused training and strategies that integrate education and training.

Source: Neil Ridley and Elizabeth Kenefick, Research Shows the Effectiveness of Workforce Programs, Center for Law and Social Policy, May 2011.