Driving Workforce Development: The Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund's Impact on Massachusetts

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 firms. WCTF grants expand training capacity to upskill new workers and address employers’ hiring needs across a broad range of occupations and industries. 

Spotlight on Raquel J. Fernandes and the Impact of the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF)


In this post, we’re spotlighting Raquel J. Fernandes, Program Manager for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF). In her role, Raquel manages a diverse portfolio of grants, working closely with grantees to ensure programs are effectively addressing workforce needs across the Commonwealth. She provides ongoing support, helps monitor progress and outcomes, and contributes to the design of special projects that enhance workforce development initiatives. Raquel also contributes greatly to team-wide projects through her technical expertise and outstanding public speaking skills. Her work ensures WCTF-funded programs align with the evolving needs of both employers and workers, contributing to Massachusetts’ workforce competitiveness by fostering impactful, community-driven partnerships.

 Q: What is your role and how long have you been with the Sector Strategies team?

A: I am a Program Manager with the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF) Team. In my role, I manage a grant portfolio for our WCTF grantees, which involves regular meetings with our partners to ensure alignment on goals, progress, and challenges. I conduct fiscal and outcome monitoring to ensure that our grantees are meeting their financial and performance objectives. I provide ongoing support to grantees, helping them navigate challenges and identify opportunities for improvement. Additionally, I participate in special projects, such as designing and conducting focus groups with program participants and supporting the Communities of Practice with our grantees. I began with the team as a Grant Management Intern in the fall of 2023 and transitioned into my current role in May 2024.

Q: How did you initially get involved with Sector Strategies, and what drew you to this particular role?  

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: Can you describe a typical day in your role and some of the core responsibilities you handle?

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: How do you believe the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund team helps improve workforce development initiatives?

A: The WCTF team helps improve workforce development by supporting programs that train and place unemployed and underemployed workers. The Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF) focuses on demand-driven programs designed by industry partnerships, which help improve skills, income, and job retention while boosting the competitiveness of Massachusetts businesses. The WCTF model fosters strong partnerships between local organizations, employers, and the public workforce system. This approach ensures more people across the Commonwealth can access better opportunities and increase their economic mobility. It is rewarding to be part of a team that helps create these impactful, community-driven programs.

Q: How do you envision the program’s role evolving over the next few years to address emerging workforce challenges?

A: Our team is always collaborating with the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) to adapt to the evolving workforce challenges in Massachusetts. One way we’re addressing these challenges is through targeted programs like the HealthCare Hubs, which bring together regional MassHire Workforce Boards, local healthcare employers, and training providers to meet the demand for skilled workers. These partnerships help train and support adults looking to enter or advance in healthcare careers, especially in high-demand roles. We are also focusing on innovative approaches, such as the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund Program Design Grant, which supports planning and design for new workforce development programs. Additionally, more recently, we started providing much-needed support to individuals in emergency shelters through ESOL services and career readiness programs, helping them secure stable, unsubsidized employment and work towards economic stability.

As workforce needs continue to change, I see our role evolving to address new challenges and opportunities. This will ensure that we remain responsive and effective in supporting both our program participants and employers.

 

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