About the Mountain Area Workforce Development Board:

Who We Are-

The Mountain Area Workforce Development Board (MAWDB) is created through federal legislation and serves Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania counties. Over 50% of the Board's membership is comprised of representatives from private industry. The remaining members represent Economic Development Agencies, Education, Community Based Organizations, Organized Labor and Local Government.

Our budget approaches $2 million annually and we allocate those funds for skill training in the four-county area. All services provided through the JobLink Career Centers are free of charge unless otherwise noted. 

What Does The MAWDB Do?

• Develops a single, comprehensive strategic plan for the four-county area by identifying workforce development issues and the needs of local businesses.
• Continually evaluates and assesses workforce needs and assures quality programs to meet those needs.
• The Workforce Development Board allocates funds for a number of job training programs.
• Promotes partnerships and maintains active involvement of business, industry and education.
• Selects operators of the JobLink Career Centers and oversees the operation of centers in each county.
• Oversees the delivery of all workforce development job training programs.
• Advises elected bodies on workforce development issues.

Our Core Beliefs

• Every individual deserves an opportunity to make a living wage with benefits.
• People can successfully be engaged in and advance in the workforce if provided the necessary encouragement, training and support.
• The Local Area economy depends on having a skilled, diverse, motivated and adaptable workforce.
• Partnerships and collaborations among government, business, and community-based stakeholders are essential for building and sustaining an effective Workforce Development System.
• The Workforce Development System must be held accountable and measurement of its overall performance made public.