We are thrilled to introduce Think Contra Costa, a groundbreaking initiative from WDBCCC. This program brings together a powerful network of organizations throughout the county, with a singular focus on nurturing, expanding, and retaining businesses of all sizes.

Why It Matters

Addressing Workforce Shortages: With 40% of residents commuting to neighboring counties for work, Think Contra Costa aims to bridge the gap

and bolster the local workforce.

Tackling Unique Challenges: Housing shortages, homelessness, and a lack

of affordable housing are specific issues that demand attention.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: We're determined to provide businesses, regardless of their stage, with invaluable resources, consultations, events,

and funding opportunities, both in-person and virtually.

Advancing Diversity: This initiative supports minority business owners, who make up 45% of all California business owners, compared to the national average of 20%.

Join the Movement

Think Contra Costa has joined forces with key partners, including East Bay Works, GoBIZ, the Small Business Development Center East Bay, and chambers of commerce. Whether you're an emerging entrepreneur or an established business, we invite you to explore the possibilities.

Nov. 9: Tips for Your Employee Handbook

An employee handbook serves as a crucial bridge of communication between your company and its workforce.

Learn the benefits of an employee handbook, what to avoid and much more in this one-hour event hosted by the California Employers Association.

Nov. 16: What is ChatGPT and Why Should I Care? Sponsored by WDBCCC.

Join us, alongside California Employers Association on

November 16th from 12-1pm for a FREE virtual training to learn about ChatGPT.

As the fastest-growing app in history, ChatGPT is transforming the way we work and interact with technology.

But what is ChatGPT, and why should both employers and entry-level jobseekers care?

On October 5, the WDB along with other community organizations and businesses were honored at the San Pablo Economic Development Corporation’s (SPEDC), “Sponsor, Member, and Partner Appreciation Mixer” event.

The WDB received a Certificate of Appreciation for its exceptional partnership in supporting and co-sponsoring hiring events, local workforce, and businesses. The event was a success, with over 20 local businesses in attendance, including new 2023 additions to San Pablo.

On October 13, the WDB received a WARN (Worker Adjustment Retraining Notice), from USS-UPI, regarding permanently laying off 474 affected employees on December 1, 2023. USS-UPI, LLC is represented by the United Steelworkers (USW) union. All other Management and non-union employees will be laid in the first quarter of 2024.

On October 19, the WDB Rapid Response staff, Charles Brown III, along with its Rapid Response partners, Rubicon Programs and EDD, were in attendance at the USS-UPI (USS POSSCO, Inc.), Career Fair in Pittsburg. This event was customized for experienced Manufacturing and Production Workers, Engineering and Research Workers, Operators, and Business and Admin/Support Services Staff at USS-UPI.

The WDB assisted USS-UPI by providing resources and employers. Rubicon Programs and EDD both hosted resource tables, where they provided information about employment and training, unemployment insurance, benefits for Veterans, etc.

This was an opportunity for companies to meet, interview, and hire on-the-spot, highly skilled, and experienced talent. Over 20 employers participated in the event, including Marathon Renewable Fuels, Moxion Power, C & H Sugar-ASR Group, BART, USPS, Primetals Technologies, UPS, and Georgia Pacific.

Jobseeker Success:

Determination & The Right Resources

 Unlock New Beginnings

"With the help of Kathy and the WIOA team, I was not only able to craft a resume that was presentable [but] more importantly relatable."

Know someone looking for a job? Check out EastBay Works' events, where job seekers can gain skills to advance their careers. November's events include:

* Zoom Basics Workshop: Tue. November 7, 2 p.m.

* Job Search Strategies Workshop: Wed. November 15, 10 a.m.

* Interview Techniques Workshop: Wed. November 29, 10 a.m.

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