ADDRESSING REAL WORKFORCE CHALLENGES
Central Montana faces significant workforce challenges across multiple industries. Healthcare providers struggle to fill essential positions, construction companies frequently operate understaffed, and manufacturers compete for qualified technical workers. Meanwhile, potential workers often lack specific skills or face barriers to employment such as transportation and childcare.
Central Montana Works brings together employers, educators, and community partners to develop practical solutions. Our initiatives and programs create direct pathways between training and employment, addressing specific industry needs while opening doors to career advancement for local residents.
FOCUS AREAS
Our Vision is to Be the Premier Catalyst of Innovative Partnerships to Attract and Develop Talent for Regional Enrichment and Growth.
- Strategic Workforce Planning through leadership, funding, education & outreach
- Connect schools directly with local employers
- Find solutions to overcome employment barriers and cultivate skilled talent in Central Montana.
- Develop school-based and apprenticeship training programs for in-demand jobs
- Host the annual Worlds of Work career expo for middle and high school students
INITIATIVES & PROGRAMS
INDUSTRY-DRIVEN TRAINING PROGRAMS
The CDL Training Program at Great Falls College provides commercial driver training aligned with industry requirements, helping to address the shortage of qualified commercial drivers in central Montana.
Our “Build Montana” – Accelerated Structural Welding Training delivers fast tracked welding skills certifications at Great Falls College. The program is designed to take an individual with little to no skill set or experience, and set them up to be able to step into a production welding facility and go to work at more than an entry-level position. Upon completing the program, the students are eligible to test for welding qualifications.
Since the program began in September of 2023, many of the graduating students have already been offered jobs. This welding course is a successful example of how collaboration between state agencies, businesses, and educators can close the skills gap and create fulfilling career opportunities for Montanans.