Workforce Equity: Coordinating Across Projects and Sectors

Even as large-scale, multimodal projects advance in communities around the country, local residents do not always see people like themselves involved on site, as workers. Workforce equity programs tend to operate on a project-by-project basis. Not all programs reach the communities they are meant to serve, resulting in barriers for local populations who could benefit from the opportunities. In one area of the country, a network is starting to emerge: community organizations, private businesses, nonprofits and public agencies, actively working to build capacity around infrastructure projects. Come learn about a unique, systems-level approach that unites communities under a shared vision and strategy that will result in a more inclusive workforce and economy.

Moderator: Johnell Bell, Chief Executive Officer, Espousal Strategies, Portland, OR
Elisa Young, JD, CDE, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Parametrix, Seattle, WA
Lauren McGowan, Executive Director, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) – Puget Sound, Seattle, WA
Amira Beasley, Capital Project Manager, King County, Seattle, WA