Item 08 Regional and Unified Local Workforce Plans for Program Years (PY) 2025-2028 as R_20250514214801296

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Orange RPU PY 2025-2028 Regional Plan 44 | Page Stakeholder feedback during the regional planning process validated the RPU’s existing strategy of expanding work-based learning programs, pre-apprenticeships, and on-the- job training (OJT) as critical tools for advancing economic mobility. In response, the RPU will continue to grow these opportunities, particularly for historically underrepresented populations—people of color, immigrants, and those without traditional degrees— ensuring they have formal access to employers and career progression opportunitiesin the Future Workforce. Pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs in high-demand industries such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and construction remain a priority, and the RPU will work to increase employer participation and strengthen these pathways to support more job seekers in transitioning into stable, high-quality careers. Addressing Hiring Barriers and Promoting Equitable Employment Practices The RPU continues to prioritize addressing hiring barriers such as degree inflation. Jobs that previously required only a high school diploma or industry certification now mandate a college degree, disproportionately affecting minorities and low-income individuals. Through sector partnerships, the RPU will work to develop further and expand efforts with regional partners to promote skills-based hiring over unnecessary educational requirements. Similarly, the RPU will engage employers in discussions on fair hiring practices, including reducing reliance on credit and criminal background checks, which have historically created barriers for communities of color83. Enhancing Accessibility Through Wraparound Support Services Stakeholder feedback from the regional planning process highlighted that digital literacy, transportation, and childcare remain significant barriers to workforce participation. While the workforce boards fund supportive services such as transportation and childcare, the need far exceeds available resources. As a result, the RPU must continue collaborating with partnering agencies to expand support and explore best practices that can help address these challenges. To ensure equitable access to workforce services, the RPU integrates wraparound services that address key barriers such as: • Digital literacy and broadband access—Many individuals, particularly those from low-income households, struggle with online applications and virtual training platforms. The RPU is working to expand digital literacy initiatives through community colleges, public libraries, and WIOA Core Programs. • Transportation and childcare assistance – Lack of reliable transportation and affordable childcare continues to be a significant workforce barrier. While the workforce boards provide some funding for these services, additional partnerships with local agencies and non-profits are necessary to expand access to transportation stipends, rideshare partnerships, and subsidized childcare solutions. 83 Morgan, Kate. "Degree Inflation: How the Four-Year Degree Became Required." BBC Worklife, January 26, 2021. https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210126-degree- inflation-how-the-four-year-degree-became-required. EXHIBIT 1