Abstract:
This dissertation investigated the performance of Florida’s workforce development programs over a ten-year period. The state’s system for coordinated training and employment services consists of programs operating and reporting according to the federal workforce initiative standards. They served as the focus of this performance analysis. A methodical literature review revealed a lack of directed studies of performance trends. This project adds to the body of research surveying outcomes through a state case study. A quantitative examination of data revealed trends in performance and correlations among core programs. The study also identified noteworthy performance changes within the statewide system since the reauthorization of the most recent federal initiative. The study found that Florida improved its performance in the rate of program participants entering the workforce but saw no significant increases in the average earnings of program completers. The Adult and Dislocated Worker programs maintained positive averages across most measures. The Youth Worker program saw increases in all measures. In addition, Florida consistently achieved its negotiated performance goals and increased attainment of the goal to serve participants with barriers to employment. This project provides empirical research that may be beneficial to future planning as it identifies statistically significant performance changes in the system over time. Findings from this study are useful to fully understanding the state’s progression in the desired outcomes. In addition, as Florida is one of the highest federally funded states in workforce service delivery initiatives, implications from this project could expand the scope of essential research on statewide workforce systems participating in the federal initiative.
Keywords: Florida