ABOUT THE MASSHIRE BERKSHIRE WORKFORCE BOARD

The MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board meets the employment needs of businesses and workers by supporting partnerships with industry, education and workforce organizations. We design and execute workforce development programs across the Berkshires that strengthen the skills of Berkshire youth and adults. We create pathways to connect young people to an array of career readiness activities while meeting the needs of business.

The MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board is composed of knowledgeable and influential business and community leaders who are appointed by the Mayor of Pittsfield on behalf of the thirty-two communities in Berkshire County.  The board serves as the oversight and policy-making body for federally funded employment and training services in the region. The board also has the broader role of addressing critical labor market issues and developing strategic partnerships with local leaders in economic development, the K-12 and higher education system, government agencies, chambers of commerce, community-based and labor organizations.

MISSION & VISION

OUR MISSION

To develop partnerships, generate resources, and advocate for workforce solutions that result in a skilled workforce, prospering businesses, and equitable access to meaningful career pathways and quality employment for residents and youth.

The MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board’s vision is a thriving, inclusive, and resilient regional economy where businesses, residents and youth have equitable access to workforce development resources and to quality employment opportunities. We envision a better future for people, youth and businesses of Berkshire County through meaningful work and sustainable growth.

Diversity statement: As a leader in workforce development, Berkshire Workforce Board is committed to having Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion embedded into the programs and services we offer, reflected in the people we impact and our workplace culture. Our vision of a society where upward economic mobility is possible for all – cannot be accomplished alone, but through the collective efforts and support of our staff, partners, board members and the communities in which we live and serve.

Berkshire Workforce Board helps employers build a competitive advantage by using data-driven, tailored grants designed to maximize impact with a focus on empowering diverse communities to solve their biggest workforce challenges. These programs aim to equip current and future generations with the tools they need to succeed in the marketplace by strategically investing in today’s most pressing workforce needs while creating a more equitable and accessible society. Incumbents and unemployed workers can each access the resources and networks they need to grow their career.

Berkshire Workforce Board creates opportunities for youth and young adults to define an early career trajectory and reach their highest potential. Through a mix of in-person, hybrid, and virtual work experiences, innovative programming, dynamic partnerships, and comprehensive work readiness training, we meet the emerging needs of employers and foster career exploration for participants. Our hands-on career readiness curriculum, combined with tangible outcomes, supports participants in gaining sustainable and fulfilling employment. Since 1992, the BCREB has strived to improve the core competencies and readiness of Berkshire youth (ages 14-21) to be successful workforce contributors. The BCREB prepares youth to be ready for college and careers by integrating career awareness, skills building and work readiness opportunities into school, out-of-school programs and work-based learning opportunities.

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Get to know our organization better by learning about our board of directors, partners, key initiatives, and more below!

OUR STAFF

Heather P. BoulgerExecutive Director
Heather Shogry-WilliamsYouth Director
Sara MilanoIndustry Coordinator
Kat ToomeyYouth Program Specialist
TBDManager, Industry Relations & Berkshire Market Maker