Full Citation

Title: Why Do Sectoral Employment Programs Work? Lessons from WorkAdvance

Citation Type: Working Paper

Publication Year: 2020

ISBN:

ISSN: 1556-5068

DOI: 10.3386/W28248

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Abstract: This paper examines the evidence from randomized evaluations of sector-focused training programs that target low-wage workers and combine upfront screening, occupational and soft skills training, and wraparound services. The programs generate substantial and persistent earnings gains (11 to 40 percent) following training completion. Theoretical mechanisms for program impacts are explored for the WorkAdvance demonstration. Earnings gains are generated by getting participants into higher-wage jobs in higher-earning industries and occupations not just by raising employment. Training in transferable and certifiable skills (likely under-provided from poaching concerns) and reductions of employment barriers to high-wage sectors for non-traditional workers appear to play key roles.

Url: https://www.nber.org/papers/w28248

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Authors: Katz, Lawrence F.; Roth, Jonathan; Hendra, Richard; Schaberg, Kelsey

Series Title: NBER Working Paper Series

Publication Number: 28248

Institution: National Bureau of Economic Research

Pages:

Publisher Location:

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Labor Force and Occupational Structure

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