Overview

In the evolving field of workforce development, sectoral training programs have emerged as a promising approach to connect individuals with quality jobs in high-demand industries and promote economic mobility. MDRC is a leader in studying and strengthening these programs, bringing a multifaceted perspective that combines rigorous research with evidence-based technical assistance to strengthen program operations and expand access to quality jobs. MDRC partners with training providers, funders, and policymakers to build and disseminate evidence in this area in three ways:

1. Evaluating program effectiveness

MDRC’s research has identified sectoral training programs and practices that increase income and promote economic mobility for job seekers looking to enter and advance in the labor market. Studies such as WorkAdvance and the TechHire and Strengthening Working Families Initiative assessed the effectiveness of industry-specific training, career coaching, and wraparound supports to improve employment and earnings outcomes. The Career Impact Bonds and Google Career Certificates Fund evaluations examine how alternative financing mechanisms can help individuals afford these trainings and support themselves during participation — addressing critical barriers to program entry.

2. Supporting continuous improvement

MDRC works directly with practitioners to improve program design and delivery and ultimately improve job seekers’ outcomes, through such projects as the Economic Mobility Lab, STRIVE Forward, and Job Search Support in Sector Programs. These efforts help organizations use data to refine strategies and services, strengthen implementation, and better align services with local labor market needs.

3. Sharing learning and best practices with the field

As a thought leader, MDRC actively contributes to broader conversations on sectoral training programs. We cowrite white papers, contribute to journal articles, write book chapters reviewing the evidence, and present to national audiences. MDRC also manages the Sector Training Evidence-Building Project (STEP), an effort to invest in the next generation of evidence-building for sectoral training programs.

Across this work, MDRC provides actionable insights and practical tools that help programs scale effective models, inform policy, and build more responsive and resilient sector programs. As a research and learning partner, MDRC supports the development of programs that deliver measurable impact and advance economic mobility.