Local Workforce Investment Boards (WIBs), in partnership with the State Employment and Training Commission – the state WIB, work to enhance the global competitiveness of New Jersey’s businesses by developing a world-class workforce.

The WIBs are business-led boards, serving a county or multi-county area. A WIB acts like a Board of Directors, to identify the needs of the local job market, leverage resources, oversee One-Stop Career Centers, and direct workforce investment programs in their area. They work in conjunction with economic development and related organizations to promote economic growth and the full utilization of the workforce.

WIBs are charged with integrating publicly funded workforce services and job training programs into a system that is flexible, seamless, accountable, and responsive to the needs of both workers and businesses.

Based on local community needs, WIBs define a vision, mission, and goals, as part of a strategic plan that establishes the local one-stop service delivery system to serve unemployed job seekers, businesses, incumbent workers looking for a better job, and young people entering the workforce. Since labor markets extend beyond county lines, contiguous WIBs also collaborate to facilitate regional initiatives.

In 1996, New Jersey Executive Order #36 created WIBs in New Jersey. Subsequently, the federal Workforce Investment Act of 1998 mandated them within all states and U.S. territories.

The Governor of New Jersey certifies the local WIBs and local elected officials appoint WIB members to serve as volunteer board members. The majority of members must be private business representatives. Other required membership includes representatives from Organized Labor, Community-Based Organizations, Education, Human Services and others.