National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA/CESER)

National Arizona Day

Arizona continues to strengthen its workforce system through innovation, modernization, and strategic workforce development initiatives.

The Innovations section of the 2025 State of the Workforce Report highlights several impactful efforts from the Arizona Department of Economic Security, including:

• Modernization of unemployment insurance systems and self-service access tools
• A new rehabilitation services case management system designed to improve efficiency and service delivery
• The Arizona Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship Pathway supporting workforce growth in early childhood education

These initiatives demonstrate Arizona’s commitment to creating a stronger, more responsive workforce system that better serves employers, jobseekers, and communities statewide.

📥 Read the full Arizona report here:https://www.naswa.org/system/files/2025-09/2025stateoftheworkforce-2025-09az.pdf

In honor of , offices are closed.

Today, we pause to reflect on the ongoing journey toward equity, justice, and freedom for all.

Nearly 230 professionals from across the country participated in our recent Workforce Community Roundtable on Eligible Training Provider Lists (ETPL) and Workforce Pell.

Hosted by the Workforce IT Support Center (Workforce ITSC), the roundtable focused on the technology, data and systems needed to implement Workforce Pell, which expands Pell Grant eligibility to short-term workforce training programs.

Key themes included:
• Leveraging ETPL systems for eligibility determination and performance tracking
• Strengthening data validation, reporting, and oversight practices
• Insights from New Jersey and North Carolina

This event is part of a series of virtual sessions offering support to states in implementing Workforce Pell, fostering collaboration and highlighting emerging practices.

Find tools, resources, and upcoming events at https://www.naswa.org/witsc.

Workforce ITSC is administered by NASWA and funded by U.S. Department of Labor

National New Mexico Day

New Mexico continues to strengthen its workforce system through innovation and collaboration.

The Innovations section of the 2025 State of the Workforce Report highlights several initiatives focused on improving workforce services, modernizing technology, and strengthening partnerships across the state. Featured efforts include:

• Expanded digital workforce solutions
• Enhanced employer engagement initiatives
• Strategic partnerships supporting workforce development statewide

These initiatives reflect New Mexico’s commitment to building a more efficient, accessible, and responsive workforce system for both employers and jobseekers.

📥 Read the full New Mexico report here:https://www.naswa.org/system/files/2025-09/2025stateoftheworkforce-2025-09nm.pdf

🏍️ Rev it up and rise higher at the 2026 SUMMIT, presented by FAST Enterprises in Milwaukee, WI!

This year, we’re accelerating workforce innovation and elevating ideas that move the public workforce system forward. Join leaders from across the country as we tackle critical challenges, share promising practices, and drive real progress in workforce development and unemployment insurance.

In a city known for its motorcycle heritage, it’s only fitting—we’re shifting into high gear and taking collaboration to the next level.

👉 Don’t get left behind—secure your spot and ride with us toward the future. https://www.naswa.org/conferences/2026-naswa-summit

90 Years Strong! Let’s Elevate What’s Next.

Just 1️⃣ week left to join us in D.C. for the 2026 Veterans Conference!

Be part of the “Serving Those Who Served” community—learn, connect, and strengthen together. We look forward to seeing you there.

More information: https://www.naswa.org/conferences/2026-veterans-conference

National Oklahoma Day

Innovation continues to shape the future of Oklahoma’s workforce system.

The Oklahoma profile in the 2025 State of the Workforce Report highlights key initiatives focused on improving service delivery, strengthening employer engagement, and modernizing workforce technology systems. Featured innovations include:

• Verify OK identity verification tools
• Major upgrades to claimant and employer portals
• Statewide employer outreach and engagement efforts

These strategies demonstrate Oklahoma’s commitment to creating a more efficient, accessible, and responsive workforce system for employers and jobseekers across the state.

📥 Read the full Oklahoma report here:https://www.naswa.org/system/files/2025-09/2025stateoftheworkforce-2025-09ok.pdf

90 Years of | The Sixth Decade (1986-1995)

In August 1994, the Center for Employment Security Education and Research (CESER), a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity, was incorporated as an arm of NASWA.

Former NASWA Executive Director Emily DeRocco created CESER to support NASWA and its partners by serving as an incubator for research, analysis, training, and technology.

That’s a wrap on the June Committee Meetings in Seattle!

Over the past few days, workforce leaders from across the nation gathered to tackle the most pressing issues shaping our future.

Four committees—Administration & Finance, Employment & Training, Unemployment Insurance, and Integrity Center Steering Committee—engaged in meaningful discussions.

Thank you to all the committee members and partners who contributed their time and expertise. Together, we’re driving impactful change in workforce systems nationwide.