May 2026 Chamber Champion – Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board, Celebrating 25 Years of Service
The Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board (WFWIB) serves as the workforce system for Westmoreland County and Fayette Counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. For 25 years (The WFWIB is celebrating its anniversary in May 2026), the organization has been a central force in connecting people to opportunity, strengthening businesses, and supporting the overall health of the regional economy.
The WFWIB oversees three PA CareerLink® centers: PA CareerLink® Westmoreland County at Youngwood, PA CareerLink® Fayette County, and PA CareerLink® Alle-Kiski. These centers provide vital, accessible services that help individuals with job search, career exploration, and skills development programs. Whether someone is entering the workforce for the first time, changing careers, or seeking new training opportunities, the WFWIB ensures they have the tools and guidance needed to succeed.
The WFWIB emphasizes the breadth of resources it offers to both job seekers and employers. As a neutral, community-focused organization, it connects individuals and businesses to the right services, even if those resources exist outside of their own programs. When a need falls beyond its direct offerings, the WFWIB works to identify and partner with other organizations to ensure people receive the support they need. This ability to convene partners and align resources makes them a critical connector within the community.
The organization leads a variety of innovative initiatives designed to build a strong workforce pipeline. These include the Teacher in the Workplace program, which connects educators with real-world industry experience, and the Experience Works! PLUS internship program, which provides valuable hands-on learning opportunities. The WFWIB also supports the ARC INSPIRE substance abuse program, helping individuals overcome barriers to employment and reenter the workforce successfully.
Youth development is a major focus area. Programs such as Experience Works! introduce middle and high school students to career readiness skills, helping them explore pathways early and prepare for future success. In addition, the WFWIB has expanded career awareness through events such as a Healthcare Career Expo for local schools, providing students with direct exposure to in-demand healthcare occupations and helping remove barriers to participation by supporting transportation costs.
Industry partnerships are another cornerstone of the WFWIB’s impact. They collaborate closely with employers in key sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing, including initiatives involving artificial intelligence. These partnerships ensure that training programs are aligned with real workforce needs, helping businesses find qualified talent while preparing individuals for high-priority occupations.
Community support is key to sustaining and expanding these efforts. One of the simplest ways to help is by spreading awareness—ensuring more individuals and businesses know that the Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board is here as a resource. Donations are also encouraged, as they help maintain existing programs and allow for the growth of new initiatives that target high-demand careers and emerging industries.
Some upcoming WFWIB events include:
Westmoreland – Fayette Industry Partnership Events:
- Westmoreland – Fayette Manufacturing Industry Partnership: Tuesday, June 2, 2026, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Westmoreland – Fayette Healthcare Industry Partnership: Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
The Experience Works! PLUS program is now accepting applications from students and employers. Interested parties are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as limited spots are available. Employers can host a low-cost, career-aligned intern, with student internships beginning on or after May 11, 2026. For more details and important due dates, please visit the EWP webpage: https://www.westfaywib.org/experience-works-plus/. More general information can also be found at their main webpage: https://www.westfaywib.org/
After 25 years of service, the Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board continues to be a trusted leader and connector—committed to empowering people, supporting businesses, and driving economic opportunity throughout the region. Our chamber is proud to honor the WFWIB as the May 2026 non-profit of the month!
