By Anna Ramos, Executive Director at Lancaster County Workforce Development Board
As a recap to last week’s (7/22 & 7/23/25) consortium meetings, EDC Lancaster County and the Center for Regional Analysis provided an update to the current workforce trends and also took a deeper dive into understanding the current skill sets of our labor force and where the supply and demand mismatch is occurring. Along with the asset mapping that has been done of all workforce development activities in our county. The Lancaster County Workforce Development Board is embarking on the journey of creating a workforce ecosystem to support our businesses and career seekers and become an attractive place to live, work and play by 2030. Let me tell you how!
Lancaster County faces a tightening labor market, persistent skills gaps, and demographic shifts—particularly an aging workforce. Although businesses are reporting cautious hiring and mixed performance, workforce demand remains high, especially for skilled workers in health care, manufacturing, and business services.
To address these challenges and ensure a prosperous, work-ready future, the Lancaster County Workforce Development Board (LCWDB) in partnership with the Lancaster Chamber, EDC Lancaster, Lancaster STEM Alliance and Community Action Partnership, have set four bold goals for 2030:
- Skilling Up
75% of the workforce will hold industry-recognized credentials or degrees aligned with high-growth sectors. - Business + Education Alignment
90% of employers will report that education and training programs are preparing individuals for real-world jobs. - Addressing the Aging Workforce
Lancaster County businesses will increase preparedness efforts by 20% through targeted mentorship, digital skills training, and age-inclusive job pathways. - Community Alignment
Over 100 cross-sector organizations will contribute data, align efforts, and co-invest in a shared workforce ecosystem.
These goals are supported by six focus areas: career exploration, career readiness, industry skills training, employment connections, barrier removal, and cross-sector collaboration.
Call to Action
The Lancaster County Workforce Development Board is calling on community leaders, businesses, educators, nonprofits, and policymakers to unite in pursuit of a workforce ecosystem that delivers real return on investment for every dollar spent.
In this era of limited financial resources and heightened accountability, alignment is not optional—it is essential. Your partnership is needed to:
- Invest strategically in programs that equip our current and future workforce.
- Share data and insights to inform real-time solutions.
- Collaborate boldly across sectors to remove barriers and expand opportunity.
- Champion innovation and inclusion in hiring and training practices.
Let’s build a Lancaster County where every resident has access to opportunity, every employer can find the talent they need, and every organization moves in sync to power our shared economic future.
Join us. Align with us. Let’s lead the way to 2030.
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