Conner Wyatt Steps into a Key Role: Driving Workforce Development in Clinton County

Clinton County's new Workforce Development Director, Conner Wyatt, has a strong passion for relationship-building and community support. Working with the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative, Wyatt is working toward addressing the region's workforce challenges and preparing the next generation for success. His and the Collaborative's dedication to connecting educators and employers, supporting those in the workforce, and breaking down barriers to full employment such as childcare, transportation, and housing, lays the groundwork for a stronger, more connected local economy.

A Fresh Perspective on Workforce Development

Since stepping into his role in March 2024, Wyatt has focused on understanding the unique needs of Clinton County's businesses and residents. With a background that spans early childhood education and foster care, Wyatt is no stranger to tackling complex challenges. His experience in those fields has helped him recognize that workforce development is more than just about connecting people with jobs — it's about removing obstacles that often prevent them from achieving long-term success.

Wyatt's main priority has been building strong relationships with community partners. "Getting to know the various players in workforce development, whether local schools, businesses, or government leaders, has been essential," Wyatt said. "Understanding workforce needs and desired outcomes for each community partner allows us to develop more targeted and effective strategies."

Clinton County Workforce Collaborative: A Foundation for Success

The Clinton County Workforce Collaborative, established in 2021, was already making strides when Wyatt joined. Rather than starting from scratch, Wyatt had the advantage of stepping into an established, successful initiative. The Collaborative's monthly meetings are well-attended, a sign of community buy-in and the value local stakeholders see in their work.

One of the Collaborative's key successes has been the development of immersion tours and career exploration fairs, offering local students and job seekers insight into available career paths. Wyatt also points to the creation of a credential database for businesses. This repository of information is in its final stages, with an expected launch in the near future. This database will ensure students can focus on training for jobs that meet the specific needs of Clinton County employers.

"The groundwork was already there," Wyatt explained. "My job is to continue evolving the Collaborative based on the community's needs and to keep pushing forward."

Breaking Down Barriers to Employment

Clinton County faces many of the same workforce challenges seen across the country. Issues like lack of affordable childcare, transportation, and housing remain significant barriers for job seekers. However, Wyatt and the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative are committed to finding innovative solutions to these problems.

For instance, the group brought together multiple community stakeholders to develop a Childcare Resource Guide, helping families connect with reliable childcare options. This guide is just one of many initiatives to reduce residents' obstacles when pursuing employment.

"We know that removing these barriers is essential for a strong workforce," Wyatt emphasized. "It's about more than just filling jobs. It's about ensuring people have the resources they need to thrive."

A Community United for Workforce Development

The support for the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative extends beyond government offices and boardrooms. Local businesses and schools have embraced the Collaborative's work, recognizing its role in creating a pipeline of well-prepared, qualified workers. This buy-in from key stakeholders is crucial, especially in a region like Clinton County, which sits between larger metropolitan areas and competes for talent.

In his new role, Conner Wyatt is supporting the work of all of the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative members working to address Clinton County's workforce needs. By focusing on breaking down barriers, collaborating with community partners, and preparing residents for the workforce of tomorrow, Wyatt and the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative are helping to build a stronger, more resilient economy for everyone.