Kevin Williams to host meet and greet
Kevin Williams took over as the chief executive officer of the Spokane Workforce Council in May, stepping into a role designed to bridge the gap between local employers and job seekers. The organization has been a central fixture in the county’s economy for some time, though its specific function is often misunderstood by the public. Williams, who has been with the council since 2022, previously spent over two decades in the United States Air Force, finishing his military service as superintendent of the 92nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron at Fairchild Air Force Base.
Williams described the council’s primary responsibility as acting as a connector between the business community, economic development organizations, and education providers. The goal is to create an ecosystem where the skills of local workers match the needs of local employers. “I think a lot of people view workforce development and maybe our organization as simply getting people into jobs, but it’s far broader than that,” he said.
The council works to relay specific skills information from employers to job seekers. This process helps ensure that individuals can find roles that fit their abilities rather than simply finding any available opening. Williams believes this approach is essential for maintaining the area’s economic health.
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Spokane’s economy has shown significant resilience over the last decade. The region benefits from a diverse mix of industries, which provides stability even when specific sectors face challenges. The local healthcare sector has been a major source of growth, adding approximately 1,200 jobs over the past year. This growth has been driven by large medical employers and smaller practices alike, supported by local medical schools and innovative on-site training programs.
Beyond healthcare, the area maintains strong positions in manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, and professional services. Life sciences have also performed well recently. However, the region faces distinct headwinds. Retail and hospitality sectors have seen a reduction in opportunities. Construction has struggled due to the housing crunch and a decrease in office building infrastructure. Financial services have also tightened as technology changes the nature of the work.
Williams noted that while the economy is diverse, it is under pressure. Competition for talent comes from other states, including those to the west and south of Washington. The days when Spokane was clearly the most affordable option in the region are over, driven largely by the housing market. Despite these challenges, Williams remains optimistic about the county’s potential.
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One of the most persistent issues facing the council is the skills gap. Employers often report that applicants lack the specific technical skills required for open positions. Williams pointed out that this disconnect is not always about a lack of available workers. He emphasized that many individuals are excluded from the job market due to systemic barriers. He cited examples such as individuals who have been justice impacted or those who may not apply for positions because they require years of experience that they do not possess. “Let’s be realistic about that,” he said.
The council’s mission under Williams is to evolve beyond simply managing workforce programs. He wants the organization to be viewed as a strategic partner in solving broader economic challenges. By acting as a connector between business, education, and economic development, the council aims to create solutions for the future rather than just filling vacancies. The focus is on raising the organization’s profile so it is recognized as a vital component of economic development rather than just a service provider.
