Career Connect Washington – Industry Sector Leader

The Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) is conducting a competitive procurement (RFP #2025-01) to select Career Connect Washington (CCW) Sector Leaders for high-priority industries across multiple Washington counties and jurisdictions. The procurement seeks qualified entities with established employer connections to develop and implement industry sector strategies for scaling career-connected learning programs. Successful bidders will be responsible for creating comprehensive strategies to address an anticipated 1.5 million job openings by 2032, with a focus on postsecondary credential development. Proposers must demonstrate expertise in industry partnerships, potentially representing consortia including industry associations, Centers of Excellence, labor organizations, and strategic partners. Key procurement dates include a bidders conference on January 22, 2025, bidder questions due February 28, 2025, proposal answers posted March 7, 2025, and final proposal submissions due March 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM. The evaluation process will occur between March 31 and April 18, 2025, with Apparently Successful Bidder (ASB) announcements scheduled for April 25, 2025.

The RFP encourages participation from small businesses and veteran-owned businesses, though no specific set-aside percentages are indicated. ESD intends to award multiple contracts, with only one contract granted per industry sector. Each contract is estimated to provide compensation between $200,000 and $300,000 for a performance period from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, with potential for contract extensions through additional federal or state funding amendments. Proposing organizations should be prepared to demonstrate comprehensive industry connections, strategic planning capabilities, and a robust approach to developing career-connected learning programs. The contracts will support Washington's workforce development goals by creating pathways for postsecondary credential attainment and addressing critical industry talent needs. Contract negotiations are scheduled to begin May 5, 2025, with the official contract start date set for July 1, 2025. Additional federal or state funding may become available to extend contracts through future amendments.