Led by Commonwealth Corporation (CommCorp), a quasi-public agency under the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF) grant program invests in demand-driven programs designed by industry-sector partnerships that train and place unemployed and underemployed workers. The purpose of the fund is to support the development and implementation of employer and worker-responsive programs to enhance worker skills, incomes, productivity, and retention, and to increase the quality and competitiveness of Massachusetts organizations. WCTF grants expand training capacity to upskill new workers and address employers’ hiring needs across a broad range of occupations and industries. 

Strengthening Workforce Opportunities Statewide


In this post, we’re spotlighting Mary-Ann Roberts, Senior Program Manager for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF). Mary-Ann brings a global, people-centered lens to workforce development in Massachusetts, shaped by years of designing learning experiences across countries and leading statewide education and training initiatives. At WCTF, she partners with grantees to strengthen program quality, expand equitable career pathways, and ensure training models meet real community and employer needs. She leads multiple Communities of Practice gatherings, develops resources, such as the WCTF online Technical Assistance Library, and supports ESOL strategy across the fund. Mary-Ann’s background as an educator and adjunct professor fuels her commitment to building inclusive, growth-oriented systems that bridge education, workforce development, and organizational learning to help people thrive across the Commonwealth.

Q: What does your role as Senior Program Manager for WCTF entail, and how do you support grantees across Massachusetts?
A: In my role as Senior Program Manager for WCTF, part of my work is supporting grantees in carrying out their contracts with CommCorp while serving as a consistent partner throughout the grant cycle. Ensuring compliance and being a thought partner when they hit bumps in the road. Grant management is only one part of what I do. I also coordinate several Communities of Practice series where partners can learn from each other and strengthen their programs. I am currently leading the development of our online Technical Assistance Library, which will give grantees easier access to tools and guidance on program design and grant management. Another key area of my role is helping to shape ESOL strategy for WCTF so that our partners can better meet the needs of English learners across Massachusetts.
Q: What has been one of the most rewarding project outcomes you have seen through WCTF?

A: I initially got involved with Sector Strategies during my Master’s degree in Community Development and Planning, when I worked with the team as a Grant Management Intern. This internship allowed me to gain valuable experience in grant management and developed my interest in the workforce development field, which was a new field for me. After completing my degree, I was excited to start my current role as a Program Manager, which I began right after graduation. The opportunity to work with WCTF grantees, manage a diverse portfolio, and contribute to workforce competitiveness efforts really drew me to this role, as it aligns closely with my academic background and passion for supporting communities.

Q: How do you approach collaboration with local partners and training providers to make sure programs meet workforce needs?

A: A typical day in my role as a Program Manager with the WCTF team involves a mix of activities focused on managing our grant portfolio, supporting our grantees, and collaborating with various stakeholders. I spend significant time meeting with our grantees to monitor their progress, address any challenges they might be facing, and offer support as needed. Another key part of my day is participating in the planning of other projects, such as designing and conducting focus groups with program participants, which helps gather insights for improving our programs. Additionally, I also work on special projects such as presenting at the WCTF Advisory Committee meeting. The Committee includes leaders and stakeholders from across the state.

Overall, my role requires a balance of administrative tasks, strategic planning, and hands-on support for our grantees and program participants, ensuring we’re meeting workforce development needs across the Commonwealth.

Q: In your view, what skills or partnerships are most essential to building a stronger, more inclusive workforce ecosystem?

A: A stronger and more inclusive ecosystem depends on cross-sector collaboration and a commitment to continuous improvement. Bringing together training providers, employers, community-based organizations, and public partners allows for better alignment of policy, practice, and lived experience. Programs are strongest when they elevate the voices of participants, respond to the needs of their region, and expand pathways for people affected by systemic inequities. Sustained collaboration and shared learning help build a more resilient and equitable workforce system.

Q: As you know, Thanksgiving is coming up. What is your favorite Thanksgiving meal?

A: Thanksgiving is a complicated holiday given the history and harm experienced by Indigenous communities, so I try to approach the day with both gratitude and awareness. Food-wise, my plate is usually full of turkey with lots of gravy, squash, sweet potatoes, and brussels sprouts. My mom always makes a lasagna for the non-turkey eaters, and I try to save a little room for that, too. I always make sure there is room for my mom’s apple pie! 

About the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF):

The WCTF develops demand-driven training programs to address workforce needs and enhance economic mobility. It focuses on helping unemployed and underemployed individuals access quality jobs while improving employer competitiveness.

Discover Funding Opportunities to Transform Workforce Development!

  • Donnelly Success Grant: Focuses on demand-driven partnerships, creating tailored training programs that equip underemployed and unemployed individuals with skills aligned to employer needs, enhancing economic mobility and stability.

  • Healthcare Workforce Hub Initiative: Addresses the critical need for skilled healthcare workers by uniting employers, workforce boards, and educators to deliver targeted training for high-demand roles like nursing and allied health professions.

  • Program Design Grant: Enables organizations to develop innovative workforce training solutions by funding the planning and design phases, paving the way for successful implementation and lasting impact.

  • RISE Grant: Provides ESOL and job readiness services for individuals who are or have been residing in the state’s emergency shelters.

 

For more information about the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF), visit commcorp.org/workforce-competitiveness-trust-fund