Work Groups
HCWDB Work Group Summaries and Members
Employer Relations:
Builds relationships, shares knowledge, and coordinates resources between the Hennepin-Carver Workforce Development Board (HCWDB) and private, public, and non-profit employers; supports local employers with hiring and retaining skilled workers, and to develop strategies for addressing employer challenges and advancing employer priorities.
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Tim Mayer (Chair), Elise Durbin, Doug Muller, Amanda Ruch, and Christa Seaberg
Hennepin County Staff: Erik Aamoth ([email protected])
Program Design & Development:
Facilitates alignment of the local public workforce system, including Youth, Adult, and Dislocated Worker career training services, Adult Basic Education, CareerForce and DEED Job Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation. Develops strategies to support program providers, ensure compliance with state and federal policies and regulations, and ensure program services are meeting the needs of participants.
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Kim Schrupp (Chair), Kate Black, Sarah Gutzman, Jen Kielas, and Cindy Larson
Hennepin County Staff: Bri Zaiss ([email protected])
Strategic Talent Pathways:
Focus on aligning career pathways with current and emerging labor market trends to meet employer needs. Through collaboration with educational institutions, training providers, and community partners, identify gaps, evaluate program effectiveness and leverage resources to ensure relevant, high-quality training opportunities. Support innovative models like apprenticeships and coordinate with employer engagement efforts to strengthen talent pipelines across key industries.
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Emily Watts (Chair), Derrick Givens, Rebecca Stearns, Kelsey Rogness, and Julio Vargas-Essex
Hennepin County Staff: Bri Zaiss ([email protected])
Executive Internal Operations:
Review and build upon internal Board policy and structure, such as education, recruitment, and participation, to pursue a continuously more inclusive, knowledge, and active board membership.
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Nicole Mattson (Chair), Garfield Clark, Tim Mayer, Jen Kielas, Kim Schrupp, Rebecca Stearns, and Emily Watts
Hennepin County Staff: Erik Aamoth ([email protected])
