2025 Impact Report
Welcome from the Board Chair
In 2025, WPTI advanced its mission with purpose and measurable impact — reaching more than 1,200 workforce professionals and 300 organizations across New York City and beyond. This growth reflects not only our expanding footprint but a deepening commitment to equity, innovation, and collaboration.
I’m incredibly proud of how, together with our partners and funders, we are transforming how workforce systems adapt and lead in times of change. As we look to 2026, WPTI will continue to invest in people, strengthen the organizations that serve them, and shape the future of work with clarity, courage, and care.
Thank you for your partnership in this vital work.
Maya Washington, Chair, Board of Directors
A Reflection from the CEO
At WPTI, we know that change can be uncertain—but it’s also where possibility lives. This year, we’ve leaned into that truth, emerging with renewed clarity of purpose and real momentum. We’re turning ideas into action, helping our partners lead boldly amid shifting policy priorities and a rapidly changing economy. Within our A3 framework—Activate, Accelerate, Amplify—we support workforce development organizations and professionals to navigate the system, design data-driven programs, prepare jobseekers, strengthen employer partnerships, and build leadership, resilience, and community. Our focus remains the same: people at the center, possibility at the core. Thank you for walking alongside us, believing that together we can build a stronger, more hopeful future.
With appreciation and momentum,
Sherazade Langlade, Chief Executive Officer
WPTI by the Numbers
WPTI’s powerful multiplier effect means that, over five years, each workforce practitioner we train supports more than 100 jobseekers on their path to employment and advancement.
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90% of participants reported improved practice and performance after working with WPTI.
Participants reported that WPTI exceeded expectations 63% of the time in areas like:
Improving skills
Preparing for a new role
Becoming up-to-date on trends, tools, & best practices
Growing confidence in their work
In fact, 70% came away having met more than one of their expectations.
Overall, 8/10 participants say they would recommend WPTI to a friend or colleague.
Our A3 Approach
Building Skills, Strengthening the Field
WPTI supports workforce development professionals at all stages of their careers, providing the skills, knowledge, and tools they need to meet the evolving demands of their roles. In 2025, WPTI delivered a comprehensive suite of professional development opportunities, combining in-person trainings, online courses, and customized programs to maximize reach and effectiveness.
Boosting Workforce Development in 2025 with Off-the-Shelf, Customized, and Online Trainings
increase in individuals served
increase in organizations served
of participants complete multiple trainings
learners completed an asynchronous WPTI e-course
learners attended WPTI’s free quarterly virtual trainings
2025 clients and customers included:
Getting Approved for College Credit
In 2025, WPTI’s “Foundations in Workforce Development,” a nine-course online series, was approved for one elective credit in youth studies at the City University of New York School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS).
“Programs offered by external partners undergo a rigorous vetting process before CUNY SPS awards credit for prior learning, and WPTI’s e-courses were an easy ‘yes’ for us.”
— JENNIFER SPARROW, Interim Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, CUNY SPS
Leading the Way in Leadership Development
participated in WPTI leadership development programs
prepared for an expanded role or responsibilities
BIPOC, preparing
practitioners of all
backgrounds for
advancement
Launched Elevate Leadership Development, designed for early-mid career workforce practitioner focused on team and program management, data driven program design, and peer collaborations.
“Before [Elevate], I was always in the weeds. Now I can see the bigger picture—and that’s helping me guide my staff and my participants toward success.”
— CONNIE JORDAN, Director of WIOA’s Train and Earn Program and Equal Opportunity Liaison at Henry Street Settlement
Advancing Workforce Excellence Through Proven Programs
WPTI equips providers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to respond to emerging trends and meet the needs of diverse communities. Together, these efforts elevate practice across the field, fostering innovation, collaboration, and long-term impact in workforce development.
WPTI has developed evidence-based programs and frameworks that strengthen workforce organizations and improve outcomes for jobseekers and young adults across New York City.
Business Engagement Learning Lab (BELL): In its 12th cycle, BELL continued to be one of WPTI’s most in-demand professional development programs, equipping workforce professionals with the tools and strategies to build successful employer partnerships. This year also marked the launch of BELL Essentials, expanding access to foundational employer engagement skills.
Workforce Systems Leadership Program (WSLP): Now in its fifth cycle, WSLP welcomed 24 participants—its most diverse cohort to date—providing an intensive leadership launchpad and professional network. WSLP graduates join a growing alumni community of 142 workforce leaders driving change across the field.
Mentored Internship Program (MIP): Now in its seventh cycle, MIP served 186 young people this year. More than 50% secured employment—through SYEP, agency placements, or other opportunities—and/or enrolled in higher education, demonstrating the program’s strong outcomes and career pathways impact.
“What I loved about the MIP community is that it’s not just a program—it’s a safe space. From day one, we’ve built unity, common ground, and a place where we’re not working in silos. The support and resources WPTI has provided have been amazing.”
— DEBBIE P., HeartShare, MIP Coordinator
Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Workforce Development
WPTI is at the forefront of helping the workforce development field understand and responsibly apply artificial intelligence to strengthen programs, improve outcomes, and prepare participants for the future of work. WPTI is creating AI resources, tools, and learning programs on the technology’s benefits and risks as they pertain to the workforce development sector. As AI transforms every aspect of work, WPTI will assure that both the workforce development sector and workers are prepared and ready.
To date, WPTI has:
Contributed to National Standards: Supported the development of the AI Alliance’s Guide to Essential Competencies for AI, shaping the skills framework for equitable AI adoption in the workforce field.
Created Practical Tools and Guidance: Developed two cornerstone resources—Using Artificial Intelligence with Workforce and Career Development Participants and Harnessing AI Responsibly in Workforce Development: An 18-Point Guide for Nonprofits—to help organizations integrate AI ethically and effectively.
Launched the AI Learning Lab: Introduced the AI Learning Lab, in collaboration with Meet the Moment, engaging 15 organizations in hands-on exploration of AI applications in workforce and career services.
Expanded Access to Knowledge: Hosted four free public sessions on AI to democratize understanding and build confidence across the field.
Embedded AI Across Programs: Updated all WPTI curricula to include real-world AI use cases and applications relevant to workforce professionals.
Built a Community of Practice: Established an AI Advisory Group to convene digital transformation experts and leaders, advise on ethical integration and adoption, and shape the responsible use of AI in workforce development.
“I’ve so appreciated that WPTI took the lead [with AI] — it’s been such a vacuum. I know this is important for my field, but without this initiative I would be lost.”
— LUANNE BLAAUBOER, Frontline Focus Training Institute, Vice President of Vocational Programs at Good Shepherd Services
Advancing the Field of Workforce Development
By sharing lessons learned from the field and elevating the real-world experiences of practitioners, WPTI seeks to grow a broad community committed to generating greater equity through economic opportunity.
When government agencies and workforce development organizations seek expertise, they turn to WPTI. In 2025, WPTI continued to elevate and represent the voice of New York City’s workforce development community through active engagement, thought leadership, and strategic collaboration.
Strategic Planning and Policy Engagement: Invited by the NYC Office of Talent and Workforce Development to participate in five strategic planning sessions shaping the city’s workforce agenda.
Coalition Building: Actively contributed to two youth workforce coalitions advancing opportunities for young New Yorkers.
Stakeholder Convenings: Convened four focus groups with key workforce leaders, including representatives from the NYC Mayor’s Office of Talent, NYS Department of Small Business Services, and the Center for Fair Futures.
Thought Leadership on Emerging Issues: Participated in three exclusive discussions focused on AI, skills-first hiring, and the future of work, hosted by the NYC Mayor’s Office, Jobs for the Future’s Skills Summit, and the AI Workforce Breakfast.
Promoting Workforce Wellbeing: Hosted three Workforce Wellness Sessions in partnership with the Center for Social Wealth (CSW) and the NYC Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC).
Partnership Expansion: Strengthened or formalized 30 cross-sector partnerships to advance our mission.
Spotlighting Impact: Featured 20 clients, partners, and funders through our 20x20: Why WPTI storytelling series.
Celebrating Community: Welcomed 120 guests to our 20x20 Celebration, marking two decades of workforce impact.
Field Expertise and Recognition: Delivered 14 presentations at major workforce events, including the NAWDP Youth Symposium (2 sessions), The Network, JobsFirstNYC, Next Gen, Grace Institute, NJH/1199, Youth Funders, NYCETC Conference (3 sessions), EOC, The Corps Network, and NYATEP.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we look to 2026, we do so with open eyes and steady hearts. The year ahead will bring real challenges—tightening budgets, staff losses, policy shifts, and growing uncertainty for many of the people we serve. Participants are facing fear, hunger, and instability, and programs are being asked to do more with less. Yet in these moments, our mission feels more urgent than ever. At WPTI, we will continue to activate, accelerate, and amplify the people, programs, and systems that make opportunity possible.
In 2026, we will:
Grow our reach by 25%
expanding the number of workforce organizations and practitioners we serve.
Expand our no-cost training series from 5 to 13 sessions
to support practitioners during this period of financial and policy upheaval.
Advance our Quality Occupations portfolio
by helping programs strengthen and integrate durable skills—like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving—so participants can thrive, in work and in life.
Activate the Make It Work Collaborative,
bridging NYC’s child welfare and workforce systems to ensure young people in foster care can access the right programs to thrive.
Co-develop an AI Readiness Assessment and Integration framework
with our AI Advisors and Partners to guide responsible adoption of technology.
Invest in leadership and wellness offerings
to support leaders in all the ways that matter.
Launch two new industry partnerships
with NYC Public Schools and DYCD—focused on Healthcare and Business & Finance.
Create a Green Economy Navigation Assessment
to help programs prepare participants for emerging good jobs.
Continue partnering with NYCETC, NYATEP, JobsFirst, and CSW
to align strategies and strengthen resources across the field.
Even in hard times, our commitment holds: to meet challenges with courage, lead with care, and build a workforce system where possibility—and people—can thrive.
Thank You
Board of Directors
Maya Washington
Board Chair
Lauren Gray
Vice-Chair
Joan Rosenthal
Vice-Chair
Patricia Jenny
Treasurer
Neila Radin
Secretary
Blake Foote
Amy Givens
Lowell Herschberger
Rebekkah Hogan
Kristina Nilsson
Chester Phung
Travis Reid
Traci R. Scott
Jennifer Sparrow
Team
Akiera Charles
Climate Justice Fellow
Justin Collins
Senior Director of Programs
Yanni Deconescu
Director of Project Management
Lizanne Hart Consulting
Fractional Communications Team
Sherazade Langlade
Chief Executive Officer
Bill Lorenz, NPOC
Fractional CFO
Christopher Lynn-Logue
Program Manager
Chorlette McHayle
Coordinator of Impact Populations
Elaine Morales Consulting
Fractional Development Director
Darshan Senthil
Data Infrastructure Program Manager
Andrea Vaghy
Chief Program Officer
2025 Funders
