Meet Michelle Day, MA, CWDP, Director, Workforce Services | Local Workforce Development Board.

What Is Your Role at FCWS?

I lead the wonderful Workforce Services team in creating, implementing and evaluating workforce development programs that connect our businesses to the skilled talent they need to thrive. In this position, I advocate for federal, state and local resources. I review and analyze strategic planning, lead and support staff and the operations of the Frederick County American Job Center. I also lead the Frederick County Workforce Development Board made up of local business leaders and partners who help shape the way we impact our County's young adults, job seekers, and businesses.

What Do You Enjoy Most About Your Work?

I absolutely love working alongside the creative team members here at FCWS. I am amazed at how our team can really take an idea and make it happen AND achieve impactful results. I am proud of the reputation our team has earned over the years as professionals in the field of workforce development. Our team is professionally credentialed and certified, and they model the life-long learning approach to their work. This is key as we work with individuals to support their own career goals.

What Does Workforce Development Mean to You Personally?

To me, workforce development is more than just training programs or employment initiatives—it’s about empowering individuals and communities to be economically sustainable. Workforce development is a profession that embraces a commitment to equity, inclusion, and long-term impact that takes into account the needs of our businesses and the needs of job seekers who should have access and opportunity for continued growth and career mobility.

Share One Accomplishment, Project, or Moment That Makes You Proud of the Work You Do.

The recent arrival of our Mobile Career Center! Almost 4 years since submitting the concept, it's been a heavy lift, but we can't wait to get it out into the community to bring our services to people in the County.

What Is One Thing People Might Be Surprised to Learn About Your Role?

It requires a LOT of reading, interpretation of law, regulations, policies and strong advocacy skills in order to maintain quality programs that make a difference to people and businesses in our County.

What Is Your Top Career or Workforce Tip?

Investing in your workforce is so critical to maintaining competitive advantages. We are fortunate to have established partnerships with many local businesses for their workforce development initiatives to hire, train and even promote individuals. Strategic partnerships are key in the workforce development area. Partners who understand their capacity and understand the value of workforce development have a real opportunity to enhance already well-established efforts to connect young adults and job seekers to meaningful careers that offer economic mobility.

Workforce Partners in Action

Without the dedication of our local Workforce Development Board members who volunteer their time and expertise, we would not be successful in implementing programs and services. The private sector members offer key insights to industry needs and trends that directly affect what programs and workforce solutions we implement. Thank you, Frederick County Workforce Board members!