As the leading advocate for workforce development professionals, the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) champions policies that strengthen our nation’s workforce systems and expand opportunities for workers, learners, and employers. Workforce development professionals serve as the critical bridge between talent and opportunity—driving economic growth, advancing equity, and fostering innovation in communities across the country.
NAWDP’s advocacy is grounded in the real-world experiences of our members and shaped by the evolving needs of the labor market. We work to ensure that federal policy reflects the realities on the ground, empowering professionals to deliver impactful solutions and connect people to meaningful careers.
We believe that strong workforce systems are built through collaboration—among federal, state, and local partners; between education and industry; and through the ongoing partnership between workforce professionals and the communities they serve. Our legislative priorities reflect this interconnected vision, advancing strategies that promote mobility, resilience, and shared prosperity.
Stay Connected
NAWDP encourages you to connect with your U.S. Representatives and Senators to advocate for workforce programs. Download the Advocacy Toolkit for ideas.
Latest Legislative and Regulatory Activity
Stay informed on the latest developments shaping the future of workforce development. This section highlights recent legislative proposals, regulatory changes, and policy updates that impact workforce professionals.
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TEGL 03-25: Encouraging the Use of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Funding to Help Youth and Adults Develop Artificial Intelligence Skills
TEGL 03-25 (2025) provides guidance to state and local workforce development boards…
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New Federal Plan Highlights Framework for Building the Future Workforce
The U.S. Departments of Labor, Commerce, and Education have released America’s Talent…
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Lori Chavez-DeRemer confirmed as Labor Secretary
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, President Donald Trump’s pick to head the U.S. Department of…
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Workforce Programs Receive Clarity as TEN 21-24 Is Canceled
ETA has issued TEN 21-24, Change 1, officially canceling the prior notice…
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Nominee for ETA Assistant Secretary of Labor Announced
Henry Mack III has been nominated to become the next Assistant Secretary of…
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OMB Memo Ordering Temporary Pause on Federal Funding Rescinded
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has rescinded Memorandum M-25-13, released on…
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ETA Issues TEN #21-24: Immediate Implementation of New Executive Orders
ETA issued TEN #21-24 requiring recipients of federal funding to immediately cease…
Earning my Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) credential has not only provided access to valuable training opportunities but also given me the confidence to actively connect with and expand my professional network within the workforce development community. This certification has enhanced my credibility and professional recognition, positioning me as a trusted expert among the clients I serve and strengthening my ability to make a meaningful impact in their career development.
— Wynnie Iga-Lwalanda, ZIL Career Avenue LLC
Earning my CWDP credential provided formal recognition of my experience and expertise, which has enhanced my credibility with both colleagues and business partners. NAWDP continues to be a valuable resource as I lead collaborative workforce initiatives and strive to create lasting impact in my community.
— Dana Sheldon, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation
It is my belief that when you can validate the “what you think to be true” with a credential, that you truly are able to do your job better each and every day. This could not be more true for the CWDP. The validation that I received going through this process allows me to be confident in all settings when talking about workforce development.
— Todd Nielsen, Denver Economic Development & Opportunity
A layer of trust is added to prove my expertise in the industry. A Workforce Developer with this credential is one who has proven their willingness to participate in personal and professional development, and they are abreast of industry trends in real-time. My CWDP allows me to proudly display my commitment to my profession.
— Reese Broadnax, SWAPDD, Inc.
I earned my CWDP in 2020 and recently renewed my certification. I decided to earn my because I wanted to expand my knowledge of the workforce system and strengthen my skills in the key areas of business engagement and customer service methodology.
— Janna Taylor, LHRDI
I decided to earn my CWDP in 2015. I thought it was the best way to demonstrate my understanding of the market and the work that I was doing.
— Jason George, Lightcast
Becoming a CWDP has helped establish my place in the workforce development landscape. It has given me access and authority in different circles, and it provides me with more confidence as an advocate for my staff and participants.
— Erica Davis, Gamm, Incorporated
Membership with NAWDP has been instrumental in maintaining awareness of emerging workforce trends, updates, and best practices. The opportunity to attend this year’s virtual conference further enriched an already exceptional professional resource.
— Dr. Nypheteria Clophus
NAWDP membership has been instrumental in my professional growth. The access to high-quality training, timely industry insights, and a national network of peers has helped me stay ahead of emerging workforce trends.
— Dana Sheldon, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation
In a fast-changing environment, having a centralized space dedicated to elevating, informing, and connecting practitioners is essential. Continued education, access to timely and relevant resources, and opportunities to learn from our peers are critical to staying effective and forward-thinking. That’s exactly what NAWDP provides, making it an incredibly valuable resource for our team and the broader workforce development community.
— Ashley Espinoza, Lane Workforce Partnership
Being a member of NAWDP has become essential to my success as a workforce development professional. The training, conferences, and networking has helped me become a stronger leader to my staff and a better support to my participants. I can’t imagine doing this work without a NAWDP membership as reinforcement!
— Erica Davis, Gamm, Incorporated
NAWDP membership has provided numerous invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development opportunities that I would not otherwise have had access to. Experiencing all of these benefits in person at the 2025 NAWDP Conference reinvigorated my passion for the work I do.
— Jenn Adams, State of Missouri
NAWDP has helped me quickly build a foundation in workforce development and connect with a community that’s eager to support and share knowledge.
— Sarah Martino, American Society of Safety Professionals
Become a Member Today
Become a NAWDP member and join the movement to elevate the workforce development profession. Together, we build stronger systems and stronger careers.