By JASON MATTHEWS I’ve worked with leaders who take a “just get it done” approach. It’s what I’d call a “just get them employed” approach. In their mind, the outcome is clear: They’ve hired capable staff, explained expectations, and defined success. The assumption is simple and the team should be able to deliver. The team … Read more
By JASON MATTHEWS Workforce teams are dedicated and work diligently to serve their customers, yet outcomes are not always consistent. This is not a reflection of staff commitment or capability; it is the result of work that is unaligned to a shared outcome. When the goal is not clearly defined: When the system is organized … Read more
By JASON MATTHEWS I. Why Empowerment Is the Starting Point In the first article of this series, we examined the recurring gaps in workforce systems—unclear outcomes, blurred roles, fiscal uncertainty, fragmented partnerships, and misaligned handoffs. These issues do not stem from a lack of effort. They are caused by misalignment. And alignment is a foundational … Read more
By JASON MATTHEWS I. Opening Observation: The Appearance of Alignment Most workforce teams believe their internal systems are working. That belief often goes unchallenged – until someone asks the right questions. On the surface, operations often look solid. Teams are staffed by capable professionals who care deeply about the people they serve. Case managers, business … Read more
By JASON MATTHEWS Veterans over 55—and increasingly those over 65—now make up nearly half of all living U.S. veterans. Yet despite their experience and motivation, they often encounter outdated systems built for younger jobseekers [1]. One in four veterans are between the ages of 70 and 79, challenging the outdated stereotype that most veterans seeking … Read more
BY JASON MATTHEWS For veterans returning to civilian life, the road to stability is sometimes isolating. The loss of military structure and shared camaraderie leaves some without the support systems they once relied on. Peer support—structured, intentional connection among those with shared lived experiences—helps bridge this gap. In veteran reintegration, it builds trust and mutual … Read more
BY JASON MATTHEWS This article builds on our previous piece, “Empowering Veteran Service Providers: A Guide to Understanding PTS and Opioid Use,“ emphasizing the importance of specialized awareness training for workforce and credentialed training providers—such as Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists and Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives (LVERs), Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP) case managers, … Read more
BY JASON MATTHEWS When ChatGPT debuted in 2022, workforce agencies immediately recognized opportunities to enhance job matching, accelerate communications, and streamline services. While initial adoption raised important policy questions about security and accuracy, states continue to move forward proactively to harness AI’s benefits. In 2023, Maine initiated a brief pause on ChatGPT within state agencies … Read more
BY JASON MATTHEWS Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved, with tools like Jasper, ChatGPT, and other generative AI platforms becoming increasingly sophisticated since their debut in 2021. Once considered futuristic, these technologies are now reshaping industries across the board—including workforce development. For workforce agencies, AI offers transformative opportunities to enhance client interactions, streamline case management, … Read more
By JASON MATTHEWS Traditionally, VSOs have been seen as advocates for veteran benefits, healthcare, and social support, but their role has expanded significantly in recent years making them vital players in workforce development. As the job market increasingly shifts towards digital and remote opportunities, VSOs have adapted by integrating technology and offering services such as … Read more