UMDI’s expertise in workforce development is multi-layered, working both strategically and practically to help strengthen workforce systems. Leveraging our expertise in thoughtfully designed research, program evaluation, and data-driven analysis, we help organizations create and implement effective workforce programs and policies. We also work boots-on-the-ground through the MassHire Greater Brockton Career Center, connecting employers with qualified job seekers across the Commonwealth.
For Massachusetts Job Seekers and Employers
Through the MassHire Greater Brockton Career Center, UMDI helps match employers with job seekers, helping to promote growth and stability in regions where economic changes impact the local workforce and business climate.
Program and Policy Development
UMDI helps organizations design and implement workforce programs grounded in real-world labor market insight. Our expertise in applied social science and economic research ensures strategies are practical and responsive to current and future labor market needs and conditions and built to deliver measurable results.
Featured Project: Behavioral Health Workforce Study for MassHire
In 2023, UMDI conducted a study benchmarking the current state of the behavioral health sector in the Greater Boston region for MassHire Metro South/West Workforce Board. By collecting and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data, the study helped stakeholders better understand behavioral health workforce challenges in the Boston region. While major barriers included low wages, high and expensive educational requirements, and stressful work, these issues could potentially be addressed through thoughtful workforce initiatives to increase the pipeline of behavioral health workers in the Boston area.
Featured Project: Workforce Engagement Study for North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
In 2022, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce commissioned UMDI for a report to provide suggestions for the chamber and local employers to address current and future labor market imbalances. Findings included the benefits of better engaging both “hidden” and "future” workers, as well as solutions for lowering various barriers—such as geographic, skill, work/life, and more—that sometimes preclude workers from entering the workforce.