NOVAworks is advancing how workforce services are delivered through the launch of Connection Sites, an innovative service delivery model designed to meet people where they already are.

Hospitality isn’t a traditional focus of workforce programs, yet it’s a critical sector in Santa Clara County—home to more than 7,700 hospitality workers, many earning below a living wage in a region with one of the highest costs of living in the country. For workers with limited English proficiency, the barriers are even greater, often […]

Apprenticeships are one of the most effective tools for creating upward mobility. NOVAworks is translating the apprenticeship model’s proven results into a broader strategy for workforce innovation, showing how hands-on, collaborative training can strengthen the entire region. Nationally, 90% of apprentices stay employed after completing their programs, often earning higher-than-average wages. In California, the typical […]

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we live and work—and NOVAworks is ensuring no one gets left behind. While AI often feels reserved for tech insiders, we’re reimagining what workforce services can look like by putting these tools directly into the hands of everyday job seekers and employers—and by bringing together the educators and industry leaders […]

The Big Idea
 The traditional “skills gap” narrative puts the burden on workers—implying that if they just gain the right technical skills, success will follow. But that story ignores a bigger truth: many people already have the skills—they just face hidden hurdles in the hiring process. These hurdles—often built into how we screen, sort, and select candidates—can […]

What the Initiative Is: The Stanford Liaison pilot is an innovative effort to connect residents from local communities surrounding the Stanford campus—such as East Palo Alto, Redwood City, and Menlo Park—with meaningful job and career opportunities at Stanford University. By embedding a dedicated workforce navigator within the Stanford ecosystem, the project focuses on breaking down […]

What the Initiative Is: The SFO Initiative is a comprehensive workforce development program embedded on-site at San Francisco International Airport. It provides job seekers access to training and career opportunities spanning every role at the airport, from curbside services to cockpit positions. This initiative prioritizes outreach to underrepresented groups, particularly Hispanic workers, to create a […]

What the Initiative Is: The Biocom Partnership creates career pathways for entry-level and mid-career professionals in the biotech and life sciences industries. Acting as a trusted intermediary, Biocom is supporting the hiring needs within the Biosciences industry through talent acquisition, outsourcing support, and a fellowship program to build talent pipelines. These initiatives not only help companies address […]

What the Initiative Is: The Young Adult Redux pilot focuses on empowering young adults to explore careers in the civic sector. Through targeted skill-building, mentorship, and exposure to public service opportunities, the initiative helps participants navigate pathways to meaningful, impactful careers. By emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, this pilot also aims to address workforce […]

What the Initiative Is: In partnership with Western Digital, this pilot addresses critical skills gaps in the advanced manufacturing sector. The initiative includes incumbent worker training, veteran outreach, and apprenticeship programs, with a focus on silicon wafer manufacturing. By collaborating with partners like Foothill-De Anza Community College and the SEMI Foundation, the project emphasizes employer-driven […]