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Background & Research
Goodskills Career Builder is a rigorously evaluated industry-driven model, which leverages next and best practices in workforce development based on research and data. Goodwill partnered with the UB Regional Institute (UBRI) to build the comprehensive model which includes sector specific recruitment, career readiness training, an experiential work environment, support services, technical training, job training and placement and post-employment coaching for career advancement. All of these components are critical to an individual’s success, long-term increased wages and ability to build generational wealth.
We are releasing a series of reports that focus on key aspects of workforce in WNY in partnership with UBRI. These briefs are part of a collaborative effort to expand access to higher-paying career pathways for all individuals, as part of Goodwill of WNY’s Goodskills Career Builder program. Check back here for our latest research publications.
In addition, Goodwill of Western New York is proud to participate in many other regional and national research studies exploring important topics in workforce development. We are proud to share the results of those studies on this page as well.
Visit our Goodskills Research Archive for research briefs and partnerships published prior to 2023
Our Latest Research Brief
Best Practice for Workforce Training: A Dual-Customer Approach
February 2026
This research brief provides an overview of the development and implementation of a dual-customer approach to workforce training,
highlighting the benefits of this model for individuals, employers and the broader region.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Our Latest Policy Brief
Transportation Policies
For a More Inclusive Workforce
January 2025
This policy brief highlights policies at the local, state, and federal levels that are expanding transportation options for all residents and reducing dependence on vehicles as the only way of getting to work.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Featured Research Partnerships
Interweaving Equity in Place-based Economic Development Programs
June 2024
This report completed by the University of Michigan's Economic Growth Institute in partnership with the New Growth Innovation Network, is an early analysis of equity within the Build Back Better Challenge Awardees. Buffalo was one of 21 cities awarded funding through this federal program with which Goodwill of Western New York expanded its Goodskills Career Builder.
Funding for this report is from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Building regional coalitions to transform talent and modernize manufacturing in Western New York
May 2024
Completed by the prestigious Brookings Institute, this case study explores the design and implementation of the region's Build Back Better Regional Challenge WNY Advanced Manufacturing coalition, of which Goodwill of Western New York, is a proud member. Programs reviewed include the expansion of short-term job trainings into low-income rural areas, technology adoption support for small and midsized manufacturers, and rehabilitation of industrial buildings, as well as the synergistic $29 million WNY Manufacturing and Tech Workforce Coalition, funded by the state and philanthropy. This case study offers lessons about how regional partners are leveraging the combination of federal, state, and philanthropic funding to execute a broader regional strategy.
Research Briefs
Navigating a New Economic Era
Evolving Workforce Trends
October 2025
This research brief examines how the regional economy and workforce has evolved since COVID-19 with an updated look at Goodwill’s target populations for training and target sectors.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Tech and Buffalo's Rebound
Updated July 2025
This updated brief examines tech career opportunities within the region’s demographic and economic landscape, providing an update to a brief that was originally produced in October 2021.
Expanding and Retaining Talent
Employer-led Strategies for Transportation and a More Inclusive Workforce
July 2024
This brief highlights the challenges faced by workers who do not have a vehicle for traveling to work and presents transportation strategies that employers can implement to help bridge the gap to attract and retain a diverse workforce. Three hypothetical case studies are also provided demonstrated specific challenges in Erie, Niagara, and Chautauqua Counties.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Two Years In, Goodskills Career Builder Shares Lessons Learned
March 2024
Goodwill of WNY launched Goodskills Career Builder in September 2021 with a simple but ambitious goal: to help adults connect with higher-paying career pathways in Manufacturing and Tech through training, wraparound services, job placement and continued career coaching for three years. This brief shares lessons learned during the first two years of implementation and sheds light on opportunities for even greater impact.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Manufacturing: The Backbone of Innovation and Buffalo's Future
November 2023
This brief highlights the benefits and potential earnings for careers in manufacturing in an effort to address the persistent hiring challenges that regional employers face, while cultivating a diverse and inclusive regional workforce.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration
Training for a Diverse Workforce in Western New York: The True Costs and Benefits
January 2023
This brief shares data and insights on the true cost of training for a diverse and more inclusive workforce, and the economic benefits of this training for individuals, employers, the public sector and the region overall.
Funding for the brief is from a phase 1 Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant from the US Economic Development Administration