Press Release  Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development Launches MassHire 250 Workforce Innovation Tour

PITTSFIELD — The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) today launched its MassHire 250 Workforce Innovation Tour, celebrating local and regional workforce innovations across the state. The tour builds on the launch of Massachusetts 250, a statewide initiative to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence and Massachusetts’ revolutionary legacy and will collaborate with the state’s 16 MassHire regional workforce boards.

“Massachusetts has always been a place where revolutionary ideas take root and change takes shape – from the birth of American democracy to today’s workforce innovation,” said Governor Maura Healey. “As we mark 250 years of our state’s revolutionary legacy, the MassHire 250 Workforce Innovation Tour celebrates the strong partnerships in every region that are building a strong future of work.”

“Our MassHire 250 Workforce Innovation Tour reflects the best of Massachusetts – communities coming together to solve problems, support workers, and build a strong future,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This initiative is about showcasing those stories and continuing the legacy of progress that defines who we are as a state, and we’re excited to share the inspiring examples of how regional collaboration is fueling job growth, skills training, and economic and workforce resilience.”

As the Healey-Driscoll Administration commemorates Massachusetts' 250th anniversary and the nation’s independence over the next two years, EOLWD is teaming up with partners across the state to celebrate and engage communities and highlight innovative workforce initiatives. Between April and July, EOLWD will make stops at the 16 MassHire workforce board regions across the state. More information on upcoming tour stop dates and times can be found at mass.gov/MassHire250, and you can follow along on social media with the hashtag #MassHire250.

“Our MassHire Regional Workforce Boards engage directly with employers, training providers, and many partners in delivering new and innovative ways to serve jobseekers and untapped talent,” said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones. “As we look back on the amazing innovation that has helped to shape Massachusetts, this tour is an opportunity to also demonstrate that our workforce ecosystem has and will continue to bridge partnerships and new approaches to meet the growing needs of industry, workers, and future talent in regions across the Commonwealth.”

The tour launched in the Berkshires at Interprint, Inc., a technology pioneer and regional and global leader in innovative surface design and printing, who is also celebrating their 40th year in Massachusetts. As a key partner of MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board, Interprint has demonstrated a strong commitment to workforce development and industry collaboration. For example, Interprint was instrumental in establishing the first Berkshire Plastics Network, which evolved into the Berkshire Innovation Center, and has leveraged multiple state programs to upskill and train their workforce.

"Grassroots innovation thrives when communities embrace and encourage bold risks, sparking ideas that ripple outward to drive broader change,” said Alysia Ordway, Undersecretary for Workforce Development. “We are delighted to be able to showcase the collaboration happening across the state to ready the Commonwealth for work of the future as part of the Mass250 Celebration."

“Massachusetts’ 250th anniversary reminds us of the spirit of determination and innovation that built our Commonwealth,” said MassHire Department of Career Services Director Beth Goguen. “MassHire carries that legacy forward, empowering and connecting people with opportunity and helping ensure businesses thrive with the tools and people they need to grow and remain competitive.”

Next on the tour, the Healey-Driscoll Administration will join IBEW Local 103, 250 registered apprentices from across industries, and MassHire Boston to celebrate National Apprenticeship Day and showcase the impact of registered apprenticeship as an effective and creative workforce strategy in construction and new industries such as the life sciences, health care, education, and more.
 

STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT

Heather Boulger, MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board:

“MassHire Berkshire creates new possibilities by engaging with our rich community of strong innovators and leaders by forging education, training and career pathways. Our Berkshire companies are building submarines, armored trucks, medical equipment, wind turbines, and transforming our economic into new creative outlets and high tech incubators.”

Bill Hines, Managing Director, Interprint, Inc.:

“Interprint, Inc. is honored to be part of the MassHire 250th Workforce Innovation Tour, representing Berkshire County. As a leader in manufacturing and innovation, we are proud of our history, celebrating 40 years in business this year.  We are also grateful for the partnership and support of organizations like MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board, who play a vital role in helping us grow and develop our talented workforce.”

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