Ensuring a Strong Future for Your Business
Workforce training is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. It involves nurturing and equipping your employees with the skills they need to face future workplace challenges. We’re here to help you build a resilient, skilled workforce by connecting you to the resources and support you need to adapt in an ever-changing business landscape.
What is Workforce Development?
Workforce development is all about helping people grow their skills and thrive at work, which, in turn, supports economic growth and stronger workplaces. Instead of focusing only on business needs, it prioritizes people—empowering them to succeed and contribute to their organization’s goals.
This approach goes beyond traditional training methods by looking at the bigger picture, addressing challenges participants face and tailoring solutions to fit the needs of their communities and industries.
Workforce Snapshot
-
Regional Labor Force
6406
-
Population Served
22,338 (2025)
-
Educational attainment
79.4% High School Graduates
17.1% bachelor’s degree or higher
-
Workforce Participation Rate
66.2%
-
Languages Spoken
32% Spanish ancestry
-
Projected Employment Growth
+3.9% employment growth 2020-2030
-
Median Age
31.7 years
-
Major Industries
Agriculture | Food Processing | Manufacturing | Healthcare | Retail | Logistics | Tourism
-
Average Commute Time
16.8 minutes
Major Workforce Industries
Worthington's workforce supports a diverse economy with talent pipelines and training resources designed to meet employer needs across multiple industries.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing continues to be a major driver of the regional economy. Workforce partners help employers strengthen skilled labor pipelines through technical education, certifications, and career training opportunities.
Examples:
• Food manufacturing
• Industrial production
• Advanced manufacturing
• Production and maintenance occupations
Healthcare
Healthcare employers benefit from educational partnerships, workforce development programming, and career pathways that support medical professionals and healthcare support occupations.
Examples:
• Nursing
• Medical support staff
• Behavioral health
• Healthcare administration
Agriculture & Food Processing
As a regional agricultural hub, Worthington supports workforce initiatives tied to food production, processing, agribusiness, and related supply chain industries.
Examples:
• Agribusiness operations
• Food processing
• Agricultural technology
• Equipment and maintenance careers
Transportation & Logistics
Regional transportation networks create opportunities for workforce growth in logistics, warehousing, commercial driving, and distribution.
Examples:
• CDL workforce
• Warehouse operations
• Supply chain careers
• Transportation management
Retail, Hospitality & Tourism
The local service economy creates opportunities in customer service, lodging, dining, recreation, and tourism related employment.
Examples:
• Retail operations
• Food service
• Lodging and tourism
• Recreation and events
Professional Services
Professional and administrative industries continue to strengthen the regional workforce through careers in finance, business operations, technology, education, and office support.
Supporting Workforce Growth Across Industries .
FORWARD Worthington works alongside employers, education partners, and workforce organizations to strengthen talent pipelines, connect businesses with resources, and support workforce development initiatives that help businesses grow and succeed.
Building Worthington’s Workforce
Partners Driving Growth and Opportunity
FORWARD Worthington partners with organizations like these who are dedicated to supporting and growing the community’s workforce.
CareerForce
CareerForce plays a vital role in connecting job seekers with employment opportunities while supporting businesses in finding qualified talent. Their comprehensive resources help enhance workforce skills, ensuring economic growth and productivity.
- Hiring assistance
- Job postings
- Workforce grants
- Training programs
Minnesota West Community College
Partnering with Minnesota West Community College ensures access to affordable, high-quality education and training. Their programs are designed to equip students with valuable skills that match the needs of local industries, bridging the gap between education and workforce innovation.
- Customized employer training
- Workforce certifications
- Industry partnerships
Southwest Private Industry Council (SW PIC)
SW PIC specializes in creating impactful workforce solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and employers in the region. By providing career counseling, training programs, and employment strategies, they empower the local workforce and contribute to sustaining a thriving economy.
- Youth workforce programs
- Incumbent worker training
- Career pathways
How FORWARD Helps Employers .
FORWARD Worthington is ready to assist you in facilitating connections and helping your businesses find the best resources to strengthen and expand your workforce. Our extensive resources are designed to guide you toward effective solutions for your workforce development needs.
For businesses looking to expand or enhance retention, FORWARD Worthington offers Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) loans which can be strategically used for workforce development efforts. This financial support can play a crucial role in empowering your workforce and ensuring your business's future success.
How FORWARD Worthington Supports Workforce Growth
-
Workforce partner connections
-
Training program navigation
-
Hiring resource referrals
-
Workforce retention support
-
Business expansion workforce planning
-
Available incentive guidance
-
Talent attraction resources
-
Relocation assistance connections
-
Childcare and quality-of-life resource navigation
Join FORWARD Worthington
Attracting Talent to Worthington
Workforce growth is more than hiring. Businesses succeed when communities help employees build lives. FORWARD Worthington helps connect businesses and prospective employees to housing resources, childcare information, schools, recreation opportunities, and community amenities.