The Prince William County Board of Supervisors has reviewed the findings from the 2025 Workforce Development Study, which examines the current state of the local workforce and offers recommendations to support job creation and talent retention in the county.
The study was funded by American Rescue Plan Act Economic Recovery Funds and carried out by TIP Strategies for the county’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism (PWCDEDT). Its purpose is to help shape a new workforce program for the department.
Key objectives identified in the report are aimed at aligning workforce development with county goals related to education, quality of life, and smart growth. Recommendations include strengthening partnerships with educational institutions to meet workforce needs, raising awareness about career opportunities with both new and existing businesses, and encouraging business diversity as a means to attract residents and companies.
Additional priorities highlighted by the study involve using development efforts to improve amenities, supporting sustainable growth that accounts for infrastructure and environmental resources, and identifying emerging industries to broaden the commercial tax base while generating quality jobs.
Christina Winn, Executive Director of PWCDEDT, said: “That is top on the list. As skills and demand for workforce has become even more competitive amongst companies, it has been more important to focus on workforce and economic development, which is laid out in the county’s Strategic Plan.”
Input was gathered from a range of stakeholders including community organizations, educational bodies such as Prince William County Public Schools, employers, businesses, the Department of Social Services, and the Prince William Chamber of Commerce. This feedback helped pinpoint employer relationships as well as training requirements.
According to data from the study, employment growth in Prince William County exceeds that seen in neighboring areas; however, many workers continue to commute outside county borders. The analysis also indicates increasing demand for technical abilities along with more openings in middle-skill jobs—roles typically not requiring a four-year degree but offering greater economic mobility.
The report outlines several elements necessary for effective workforce development: resiliency within the labor force, strong local leadership, competitive talent pools, ongoing job creation efforts that are sustainable over time, and removing barriers for workers. These strategies aim to connect residents with local employment while fostering long-term economic stability.
County Executive Chris Shorter stated: “This study gives us a clear roadmap for how we connect people to opportunity and help businesses grow here in Prince William County. By aligning workforce development with education, quality of life and smart growth, we’re building an economy that works for residents today and positions the community for long-term success.”
Further information about the Workforce Development Study can be found by watching the presentation. Details about PWCDEDT are available at their website.
