Q&A: Good Jobs Challenge – Building a Pathway to Success

Interview with Digital Media Producer Nia Knighton

The Good Jobs Challenge (GJC) is an initiative created by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. Launched in response to economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the program is designed to build and strengthen workforce training systems across the U.S., helping unemployed and underemployed workers gain skills in high-demand industries.

The Good Jobs Challenge is funded through a $500 million allocation, aimed at fostering employer-led partnerships and creating pathways to high-quality jobs with good wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. The initiative specifically focuses on helping historically underserved populations such as communities of color, women, Veterans, and individuals facing barriers like disabilities or past criminal records.

The GJC encourages regional collaborations, with awards supporting three core phases: system development (establishing regional workforce training networks), program design (creating curricula tailored to industry needs), and program implementation (delivering non-construction projects to provide training and connect workers to jobs). The program also supports infrastructure projects, supply chain development, healthcare workforce training, and IT workforce expansion, among others.

Check out the GJC About Us Video below for a quick snapshot of the program.

https://youtu.be/AthbaFl7kwc

In this Q&A, I’m speaking with our Digital Media Producer, Nia Knighton, to gain insights into the Good Jobs Challenge (GJC) and her role in the program. Nia will share how digital outreach is amplifying the GJC’s impact across Southeast Pennsylvania communities and how digital media strategies are helping connect residents with valuable job training and opportunities. Her expertise offers a unique look at the ways digital storytelling and online engagement are bringing the GJC’s mission to life.

JM: Thanks for talking with me today, Nia. Can you explain the overall goals of the Good Jobs Challenge and how it’s being implemented specifically in the Southeast Pennsylvania region, focusing on the six counties you’re serving?

NK: It’s my pleasure to talk to you today about the GJC. In the Southeast Pennsylvania region, my team and I focus on six counties: Bucks, Berks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia. The goal is to connect jobseekers in these counties with training programs that are directly tied to local employer demand in industries such as healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. We are also working closely with underserved communities to ensure equitable access to good-paying jobs with growth potential.

In this region, the Good Jobs Challenge aligns with existing economic development strategies aimed at revitalizing areas hit hard by unemployment during the pandemic. It prioritizes partnerships with local community colleges, workforce boards, and employers to develop customized training that meets the specific needs of employers while removing barriers to employment for jobseekers from vulnerable populations.

JM: How are the GJC goals aligned with local workforce needs and economic recovery efforts, particularly in response to challenges brought on by the pandemic?

NK: The main goal of the Good Jobs Challenge is to create over 3,000 job opportunities and connect people to those jobs. We've seen a big deficit in employment since COVID, with many people struggling to find good, stable jobs that allow them to support their families. The GJC aims to bridge that gap by working closely with employers through meetings, job training programs, and apprenticeships. We’re focusing on high-demand sectors like life sciences, healthcare, infrastructure (think roads, buildings, transportation), and energy. These are areas that have a significant need, but not enough local talent to fill those roles. Our job is to create an easy bridge for people to access these opportunities, especially those who may not have been aware of them.

JM: That’s so true—awareness is key. I’m also hearing a lot about apprenticeship opportunities. Is that a focus in the GJC as well?

NK: Definitely! Apprenticeships are a huge part of what we do. Programs like the GRIT program, which is under the Philadelphia Energy Authority, offer both pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships. I’ve spoken with graduates from this program who’ve had great success in transitioning into roles within the energy and infrastructure sectors. We also offer externships in the life sciences and healthcare sectors, such as the Keystone Life Science Collaborative Program, which give participants real-world work experience while learning.

JM: It sounds like the GJC has already made a real impact. How long has the program been running?

NK: The program was awarded in August 2022, so it's been about two years now. You can read more about how the GJC started here. We've had several cohorts already complete their programs, and I've had the chance to meet some of the graduates. For example, in the GRIT program, graduates have gone on to become project managers or even start their own businesses. It’s exciting to see people not just gaining hands-on skills, but also learning the business side of things, which helps them build their careers.

JM: That’s incredible! How are you using digital outreach to connect with your target audiences?

NK: We’re using a combination of YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach people. Our audience includes young adults who are fresh out of high school and unsure of their next steps, as well as older individuals looking for a career change. We’re leveraging search engine optimization (SEO), so that when people are searching for job opportunities in fields like healthcare or energy, our videos and content appear in their searches. We’ve also been working with city officials like Senator Bob Casey to help spread the word. Reaching people where they’re at—whether online or in-person—is key.

JM: That’s great. Are you working on any strategies to increase engagement on social media?

NK: Yes, we’re focusing on building relationships with our partners, such as the Philadelphia Works Skills Initiative, and local program sponsors. We follow each other and share content, which helps grow our audience organically. The GJC spans across six counties, so there are plenty of opportunities to expand our reach through partnerships, whether it be online or in person.

JM: What role do partnerships with employers and community organizations play in the success of the program?

NK: Partnerships are everything. They’re part of the ecosystem that makes the Good Jobs Challenge work. Without employers, all of this training and skill-building wouldn’t have anywhere to go. Employers attend hiring events and even graduations, which helps participants connect directly with job opportunities. It’s a full-circle approach that brings everything together—training, community support, and job placement.

JM: It really does take a village! Can you share any data or statistics on the number of participants or graduates so far?

NK: Most of that data comes from Philadelphia Works or the Philadelphia Energy Authority, and we’re still gathering statistics. For example, in the GRIT program’s fifth cohort, 22 participants graduated, which is a great success rate. As we continue to track these outcomes, we’ll share more about how the program is helping people find and stay in good jobs.

Check out this video clip of James Ellis, GRIT Cohort 5 Graduate who shares how the program impacted his career path. https://youtu.be/Utb_qjl6YR8

JM: What kind of support services, like childcare or transportation, are offered to participants?

NK: Some programs offer stipends to help participants focus on their training and limit the strain of bills and lack of transportation or healthcare. This support makes a big difference, especially in sectors like healthcare and energy, where certifications are required. Having this financial help allows participants to stay engaged and successfully complete the program.

JM: That’s wonderful. How does the GJC contribute to addressing larger workforce gaps in Pennsylvania?

NK: The GJC is filling a critical need by creating a pipeline of talent for high-growth sectors. By partnering with local businesses, community organizations, and training providers, we’re ensuring that people not only gain the skills they need but are also connected to real job opportunities. It’s about creating a sustainable model that can keep Pennsylvania’s workforce competitive for years to come.

The Good Jobs Challenge is more than just a job creation grant—it's about building bridges between people, training opportunities, and employers to keep our economy thriving. Through a collaborative effort, the GJC is shaping the future workforce of Southeastern Pennsylvania, offering individuals a pathway to success in high-demand industries.

JM: How can jobseekers, employers and potential business partners learn more?

NK: Please visit the PA Good Jobs Challenge website created by our team to learn more about the services and benefits, including how workforce boards, community partners, and educational institutions can collaborate to bring these valuable opportunities to your community.

Looking for consultation or support regarding Good Job Challenge funding in your region? Fill out the form below, and we will have one of our team members reach out to start a great conversation.