We connect the state’s network of community and technical colleges with industries from all areas of the state to inform the creation of a robust, resilient, and diverse workforce.
We serve as statewide liaisons to business, industry, labor, and the state’s education systems for the purpose of building a highly skilled and readily available workforce critical to the success of the industries driving the state’s economy and supporting Washington families.
Washington State’s Centers of Excellence exist at the intersection of education, business, industry and organized labor. With funding from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, the Centers are the connection point between knowledge, activity and potential, inspiring and supporting collaboration.
—Jim Crabbe, Former SBCTC Director of Workforce Education
While each Center of Excellence serves a specific industry, all of Washington’s centers work together in support of four core groups statewide. Through effective collaboration between the Centers, state agencies, and partners, we are able to realize improvements for all of Washington’s residents.
Through our educational relationships, Washington businesses can access a pipeline of skilled and ready-to-work employees.
We partner with industry associations and intermediaries to convene the community and technical education system.
Through industry-fed curricula, Washington’s educational system is poised to provide the next generation of skilled workers.
Union leaders can tap into trend data, work training, apprenticeships and more, and stay involved in workforce development.
Whether you’re an industry business or labor organization, educator or school administrator, legislator, job seeker, or a member of the public, you can help us grow Washington State’s skilled workforce.
Each center works to support organizations across Washington. Find the Center of Excellence that serves your industry.
We are happy to answer questions or help you learn more about workforce and education programs in Washington.
