State Promising Practices: Colorado, Michigan and Washington State

Colorado: “Network for Success:  Colorado AD Works! Veteran Networking Events,”

Monthly networking events at Arapahoe-Douglas Works! (ADW) offer not only access to job openings, but also focus on job skill development, and offer mentoring opportunities with HR professionals from companies such as the State Office of Information Technology, Northrop Grumman Corporation, FirstBank, Verizon Wireless, Pacific Architects and Engineers (PAE), Concord Energy Holdings LLC., and Denver Health. This presentation will show how the ADW networking events can be easily replicated by other states using existing facilities and resources with little-to-no cost.

Presenter: Martin J. Bangert,* Regional Veteran Employment Representative

Michigan: “Boots to Heels: Facts About Military Women,”

Women have been serving in the military since 1775 and worked alongside men to support various military campaigns. However, many women Veterans are still battling stereotypes and barriers that prevent them from being honored in the same way as male Veterans. This presentation will bring to light some of the accomplishments and facts about women Veterans. Everyone should take special interest in this growing population, since the number of women Veterans is expected to triple by the year 2040.

Presenter: Rebecca Flemming*, Employment Services Manager

Washington State: “Professional Pathways – Integrating AJC Staff Across Programs,”

Professional Pathways is a program being pioneered by the Washington State Employment Security Department. This presentation will demonstrate how Washington State is ensuring staff have the knowledge needed to effectively integrate under WIOA and TAA. It will also show how Washington State takes on the mission that every AJC employee will serve Veterans - not just DVOPs and LVERs.

Presenters: Nona Mallicoat*, Strategic Operations Manager, Tammi Leclerc, Professional Pathways Coordinator

(*) Denotes the individual is currently serving or is a Veteran of the United States military. If they are wearing a Veteran ribbon on their name badge, please thank them for their service.