Optimal Studies Employment Clusters for Low-Skilled Workers

Date: January 1, 1970

In June 2006, Optimal Solutions Group (Optimal) was awarded a grant from the Ford Foundation to perform analysis leading to the identification of employment clusters for low-skilled workers. The grant requires Optimal researchers to utilize past research in the field to create customized models for a maximum of five metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) with the highest need for intervention. The final reports, which will be in a case study format, will include the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, and the resulting identification of viable job clusters. The case studies will also include detailed discussion of potential policy implications associated with employing low-skilled workers.

The project will be directed by Optimal’s President and CEO, Mark Turner, Ph.D., and will be managed by Laurel Davis, M.C.P., a Research Analyst II at Optimal. For further information about the Ford Foundation, visit http://www.fordfound.org/.