Sector Strategies for Success Meeting the Needs of Workers and Employers

This brief highlights the importance of sector programs and what policymakers and practitioners can do to implement a sector program to help people obtain the skills needed to find jobs that are in demand during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The brief describes how sector programs train people for high-quality jobs in industries and occupational clusters that have strong local demand and offer career advancement opportunities. It also highlights that the most valuable component of sector programs is occupational skills training that, in most cases, leads to industry- or locally recognized credentials or certifications. Examples of the effectiveness of sector programs, such as Per Scholars, Year Up, Project QUEST, and Health Professionals Opportunity Grants Impact Study, are showcased.