Highlighting Partnership

A/D Works! is partnering with Arapahoe Libraries to provide no-cost, hands-on instruction of Microsoft tools including Windows, Word, and Excel. The series is held in-person at the Centennial Workforce Center. Registration is required as space is limited.

Industry Profile Spotlight



The retail sector makes up 8.6% of the total employment along Colorado’s urban front range. Large chains like Walmart and King Soopers (Kroger) are present throughout the region, and Douglas County is home to Park Meadows, which offers nearly 1.6 million square feet of retail space. Gain insight into the Retail Industry.

View all Industry Profiles on our website.

Governor's Summer Job Hunt provides employment opportunities for young adults between the ages of 16 and 24. Interested participants can set-up job search assistance with a Young Adult Workforce Specialist by calling 303.636.1260.

• Opportunity Next Colorado is a one-time scholarship for Colorado’s Class of 2024 high school graduates and equivalent completers for use in the 2024-2025 academic year. Scholarship recipients may receive up to $1500 to help cover tuition, fees, books and equipment. The application will close on April 15, 2024.

• The Believe in Reading Grant aims to improve reading and literacy for people of all ages. Applications are considered as they are received and grants are renewable for up to a maximum of three years. There are no specific deadlines, but please apply long in advance of when you would like your check to arrive. It may take 90-120 days to receive a response.

• COEDIT's Advanced Industries Export Grant is open and accepting applications for Colorado-based advanced industries technology businesses who want to export or are currently exporting. It is a rolling application.

• The Manufacturer’s Edge Small Manufacturing Recovery Grants (SMRG) program is here to help small- to medium-sized manufacturers in Colorado looking to transform their company. The program offers consultative engagement opportunities valued at $10,000 to $20,000 or more that, thanks to a one-time state-funding opportunity, can be implemented in your organization for a fraction of the cost.

• The Manufacturer’s AdvantEDGE Scale-up Solutions (MASS) catalog is tailored for small- to medium-sized manufacturers who are eager to witness the transformative impact of consulting and training services.

• Colorado House Bill 23-1198 created a new, statewide K-12 Teacher Externship Program focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math-focused (STEM) occupations. Teachers will be able to earn credits toward professional development and licensure requirements and may also receive salary increases and/or graduate-level university credits toward advanced degrees by participating in externships. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) is actively seeking participation from business partners dedicated to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workplaces to participate as hosts to teachers. Those interested in participating are asked to fill out this interest form.

• The Lowe's Foundation Cable Grants Program is a 5-year, $50 million commitment to train 50,000 job-ready skilled tradespeople to build a stronger infrastructure that supports our communities for the long term. The application cycle for community and technical colleges will open from March 1, 2024 - March 31, 2024. The application cycle for community-based nonprofit organizations will open from August 1, 2024 - August 31, 2024.

Board on the Move

Naomi Colwell is the President and CEO of The Aurora Chamber of Commerce. She has been a member of the Arapahoe Douglas Workforce Development Board since August 2023. She recently took an incredible tour of Encore Electric, Inc. with Aurora Public Schools Superintendent Michael Giles, Adams 14 Education Foundation Executive Director Josh Gold, and Aurora Chamber of Commerce staff! They were able to explore two of the nation's most impressive prefabrication facilities to gain unique, in-depth insights into advancing construction.

Encore Electric offers an Electrical Apprenticeship Program that offers classes from basic safety, tools, blueprints, first aid & CPR and math through advanced classes in types of wiring, troubleshooting, NEC code and leadership. 

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