Module 5: WIBs Can Work Wonders

Finally, within their own network, WIBs can take actions to help One-Stops manage customer
transportation challenges, by encouraging their One-Stop workforce directors and staff to facilitate
transportation solutions for business and job-seeking customers. Here are a few of the opportunities
employment and training agencies might pursue. They could
� Take advantage of cross-marketing opportunities: For example, information about available jobs
can be posted on transit vehicles serving those job routes and throughout the transit network,
just as transit options are promoted in conjunction with job announcements and to customers
of the public workforce system.
� Invite transportation partners to speak at a short in-service training so One-Stop staff know
what transportation services are available for their customers.
� Develop a “transportation center” bulletin board within its customer resource area where
transportation and ridesharing information can be posted.
They could also
� Encourage staff to discuss transportation with each customer during intake and assessment, to
begin meeting transportation challenges before they become a barrier to a job or training
opportunity.
� Encourage business service representatives to inquire about any transportation challenges
employers or their employees are experiencing
� Request One-Stop Career Center staff to collect data on job-seekers’ mobility gaps and share it
with WIB members, so they can feed that information into transportation plans for expanded
services
On both a local and regional level, more and more WIBs are recognizing the vital role transportation
plays in economic and workforce development. Community decisions regarding the location of new and
expanding businesses and training sites all impact the ability of individuals to access these opportunities.
In becoming a part of efforts to create transportation strategies, WIBs will reap dividends from their
investment of time, resources, and leadership.
Exercises
Continue the good work you have begun with transportation and other partners in your community
through the following exercises:
Exercise 1: Have a discussion within your workforce board about steps you would like to encourage your
One Stop service providers to take in assisting job-seeking and business customers with transportation
issues. Be sure to identify those that respond to the greatest needs you have uncovered. For example,
the most effective action might be to ensure WIA participants know about all the available