The public is invited to a state forum to comment on strategies aimed at helping Washington residents obtain the education and training needed to secure employment as well as advance in their jobs as Washington’s economy grows more competitive and workplace expectations rise.

The state forum is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Thurs., July 19, at the UW-Tacoma’s Carwein Auditorium, located at 1754 Commerce Street in Tacoma.

Public comments are encouraged to help shape Washington’s strategic plan for workforce development. Comments may be provided by email, letter or through the public forum. The Tacoma forum is one of four forums to be held around the state.

The draft strategic plan and additional information is available at www.wtb.wa.gog/highskills2012.asp.

The draft strategic plan aims to create multiple pathways for both young people and adult workers to acquire education. Working with stakeholders, Washington’s Workforce Training and Educational Coordinating Board has narrowed their focus to specific goals, objectives and strategies. The final plan will be submitted to the governor and legislature in December.

The Workforce Board is a state agency that monitors and evaluates the state’s key workforce programs and provides leadership on policies that assist all Washington residents get the education and training required to secure living-wage jobs.