A collaborative effort between the Office of Youth Services, the Manchester School District, and the Employer Advisory Council (EAC)

Workforce Competency Framework

The Manchester Office of Youth Services, in partnership with the Employer Advisory Council, created this framework to help prepare youth for success in today’s workforce. Co-led by Michael Quigley (OYS) and Jillian Corey (Manchester School District), this initiative bridges school- and community-based efforts to align youth development with employer needs.

• Reflects input from local employers, educators, and youth-serving organizations
• Defines core competencies and benchmarks for youth success
• Provides a shared language around essential workplace skills
• Supports curriculum development, mentorship, and career readiness programs across Manchester

Why This Framework Matters

The Workforce Competency Framework was designed to ensure Manchester youth are truly prepared to succeed in today’s workforce by identifying the key skills they need before entering professional environments.

• Provides a clear, locally relevant set of competencies and benchmarks
• Aligns schools, youth programs, and employers around a shared language of workforce readiness
• Addresses the gap between employer expectations and youth preparation
• Builds confidence, professionalism, and long-term success for young people across Manchester