The Workforce Development Board/Local Employment Planning Council contracted with Carrie Wakeford of Wakeford & Associates to complete a jointly funded Government of Canada and Government of Ontario Skills Gap research and pilot project. This project included an extensive literature review, as well as regional qualitative research that included individual interviews and focus groups. She also oversaw a support team of researchers assisting with this project. Carrie produced a detailed report and resource list and created definitions and a framework that will help guide future projects and local area discussions. We will use this report as a guide when making decisions about future programs and services in our four county area. The final report included a list of best practices and recommendations for employers, employment support services, job seekers, community leaders, educators, and government representatives. Carrie also created a comprehensive list of optional next steps. Feedback from community partners has been very positive. Based on the results of the research, it was determined that supporting small employers with their Human Resource needs was the top priority. Carrie developed and tested three online HR programs using the software LearnDash and presented the results in a summary report. The pilot received excellent feedback from all those who participated. In addition to completing the project, Carrie also participated in team meetings and submitted monthly progress and financial reports on time. We would definitely recommend Carrie for her ability to manage large research projects and for her report writing and training development.
