Although the term “trauma-informed care” is new to most workforce development practitioners, the coronavirus pandemic has spurred many to gain a better understanding of trauma. This introduction was created to help employers and workforce development organizations understand toxic stress and the effects of trauma on individuals in the workplace. The National Fund for Workforce Solutions’ network of regional collaboratives brings together diverse partners to help workers access good jobs, businesses find the talent they need, and communities generate prosperity for all. 

A few of the National Fund’s network partners have begun to support workforce development organizations and employers with training, tools, and technical assistance around trauma-informed care. Here we draw on these and other examples to compile a selection of organizational strategies and practices to advance trauma-informed approaches in employee management. There is much more work to be done to bring trauma-informed approaches to employment and the workforce system. This introduction is just a start.