Gresham, Oregon's Preferred Worker Wage Subsidy Agreement is a program aimed at encouraging job creation and retention by offering financial incentives to employers in exchange for hiring and providing on-the-job training to individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria. This initiative helps bridge the gap between employers seeking skilled workers and job seekers in need of training or work experience. Under this program, eligible individuals include workers who have become partially or totally disabled due to a job-related injury or workers who have received workers' compensation benefits for at least six months. Participants must also have been deemed unable to return to their previous jobs and need further training or assistance to re-enter the workforce. The Preferred Worker Wage Subsidy Agreement provides a subsidy to employers, covering a portion of the participant's wages during the training period. This financial assistance helps mitigate the costs associated with training and allows employers to evaluate the participant's suitability for permanent employment. Additionally, it offers an opportunity for workers to acquire new skills, regain confidence, and secure a stable income. The Gresham Oregon Preferred Worker Wage Subsidy Agreement has different types or variations to cater to specific industries or job types. For example, there may be specialized subsidy agreements tailored for industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction, technology, or any other sector where demand for skilled workers is high. These variations provide employers with the chance to address their unique workforce needs while simultaneously supporting individuals in their respective fields. By encouraging collaborations between employers and workers, the Preferred Worker Wage Subsidy Agreement serves as an essential tool for economic development in Gresham, Oregon. It fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment while reducing unemployment rates and increasing job opportunities for workers with disabilities. This program not only benefits employers and participants, but also strengthens the local economy by creating a skilled and diverse workforce that drives innovation and productivity.