Durham Strategic Plan Dashboard
Prosperity
Status Indicator: 
In Progress | 
On Hold | 
Complete/Ongoing
Initiative: 1.21 Collaborate with educational and training institutions to equip current residents for high-growth industries
Shared Economic Prosperity
Description
The City of Durham continues to work closely with the Durham Workforce Development Board (DWDB) to ensure that the local talent pipeline aligns with the workforce needs of regional employers and priority industry sectors. Through customized training programs, on-the-job training (OJT), work experience, and other work-based learning approaches, the DWDB collaborates with Durham Technical Community College, industry partners, and skills-based training providers to deliver targeted upskilling programs. These initiatives focus on preparing job seekers for entry- and mid-level roles in Durham’s high-demand industries, such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, healthcare, and information technology.
Key Measures & Data Analysis
DWDB joined AdvanceNC, a Governor’s Office initiative aimed at strengthening North Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector. The partnership includes:
· 8 regional Workforce Development Boards
· 11 community colleges
· 3 higher education institutions
AdvanceNC focuses on ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline that meets the evolving needs of regional employers.
AdvanceNC Partnerships
Why is it important?
Collaboration with educational institutions and training providers is critical to preparing Durham residents for in-demand, sustainable careers. By aligning training programs with local industry needs, the DWDB ensures that participants acquire relevant and marketable skills. Expanding partnerships enhances program accessibility, especially for underserved populations, and allows for the development of customized training solutions. These partnerships also open doors to networking opportunities, internships, apprenticeships, and direct employment pathways. Ultimately, these efforts support economic development, community resilience, and lifelong learning, helping Durham maintain a competitive, inclusive workforce.
What have we been doing?
Staff have focused on strengthening the pipeline between local employers and Durham residents through workforce development partnerships, Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities, and the NCWorks Career Center.
Key activities include:
• Providing customized training in partnership with Durham Tech and engaging employers at sector-specific collaboration meetings.
• Conducting YouthWorks outreach at high schools and engaging companies for Work-Based Learning and WIOA participation.
• Launching a marketing campaign to increase visibility of workforce development programs and employer engagement opportunities.
Spotlight: The Durham Workforce Development Board received NCWorks Career Center Certification from the NC Department of Commerce — one of only 20 boards statewide to receive this recognition.
What's next?
Efforts to expand employer engagement and workforce development partnerships will continue through the following activities:
• Employer Engagement – Continuing outreach and engagement with local employers through June.
• Work-Based Learning Opportunities – Identifying employers to host job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships.
• Outreach Events – Planning and executing employer and partner events with WBL and WIOA agendas.
• Marketing Campaign – Continuing to promote NCWorks programs and workforce development opportunities to the community.
City Website Home Page: Durham, NC | Official Website (durhamnc.gov)
Budget Website Page: Budget & Management Services Department | Durham, NC (durhamnc.gov)
Budget and Management Services Department
Office of Performance and Innovation
Strategy and Performance Division