Workforce Development Month

History & Purpose

Created in 2005 by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), Workforce Development Month raises awareness about the importance of the workforce industry to a growing national economy. Originally celebrated in May, NAWDP moved the designation to September in 2012. 

As a highly skilled workforce development professional, you provide critical links in your community between businesses looking to hire jobseekers, and education, training and support resources. With a few simple activities, you can help remind elected officials, other workforce and education entities and customers about the value your programs and services bring to the local economy.

Tools & Resources

NAWDP has the following resources available to help you and/or your organization participate in celebrating Workforce Development Month. 

Workforce Development Month Toolkit

This toolkit will give you ideas and samples to help you in promoting your organization during Workforce Development Month. 


Workforce Development Month Logo

NAWDP has created a Workforce Development Month logo that you can use in promotion of your events throughout the month of September.


Workforce Development Heroes

Each year, NAWDP celebrates workforce development heroes from across the country who are nominated by their peers and colleagues for their outstanding efforts in contributing to the successes of their workforce programs. 

2025 Workforce Heroes

As we celebrate 20 Years of Workforce Development Month, NAWDP is honored to shine a spotlight on this year’s Workforce Heroes. These outstanding professionals were nominated by their peers for going above and beyond to create opportunities, support career pathways, and strengthen communities through workforce development. Each honoree reflects the passion, innovation, and commitment that make this field so impactful. We invite you to explore the booklet below to learn more about the incredible stories of this year’s awardees and the difference they are making nationwide.

Previous Workforce Heroes

2024 WORKFORCE HEROES2023 WORKFORCE HEROES2022 WORKFORCE HEROES2021 WORKFORCE HEROES