KSuite Impact Report: Employment

Expanding Opportunity Through Workforce Development

The Employment Action Network at KSuite is driving inclusive workforce strategies that prepare individuals for meaningful employment and long-term economic stability. Through collaborative programs and employer partnerships, KSuite members are opening doors for youth, immigrants, and refugees across our region.

👷‍♀️ Building Career Pathways for Youth and Young Adults

KSuite members are equipping the next generation with skills, experience, and support:

  • Career Exploration: Introduced 250+ youth to skilled trade careers through immersive, real-world experiences.
  • High School Engagement: Delivered career immersion programs and guided site tours to 175 high school students.
  • Workforce Training: Trained 12 young adults through intensive job-readiness programs; six secured full-time employment.
  • Employer Partnerships: Engaged 20 trade employers to offer mentorship and direct hiring pipelines.

🗣 Empowering Immigrant and Refugee Workers

With a focus on language, citizenship, and skills training, our network is advancing economic inclusion:

  • Language + Job Training: Supported 81 ESL learners through integrated workforce programs; enrollment increased by 50%.
  • ESL Graduates: Celebrated seven ESL program graduates equipped with improved language and workplace skills.
  • Civic Milestones: Six participants passed U.S. citizenship exams; two earned driver’s licenses to improve access to work.
  • Vocational Training: Delivered hands-on training in sewing, hospitality, and culinary services, aligning with employer demand.

📈 Delivering Measurable, Economic Impact

Our programs are creating lasting value for individuals and communities:

  • Reentry Success: 18 Jobs for Life graduates reentered the workforce with critical skills and community support.
  • Volunteer Commitment: 4,875 volunteer hours fueled the success of workforce programs.
  • Financial Progress: Participants collectively saved $120,751 and retired $24,605 in debt—showing tangible economic gains.

💡 A Network for Equitable Employment

By investing in people, skills, and partnerships, KSuite members are fostering a more inclusive and resilient workforce:

  • Connecting untapped talent with opportunity
  • Strengthening career pipelines in high-demand sectors
  • Empowering workers to thrive across every stage of their journey

Together, we’re not just filling jobs—we’re building futures with dignity, stability, and purpose.

💼 Employment + Labor Market Resources for Charlotte

Explore tools, reports, and job market data to understand employment trends, wage conditions, and workforce development in Charlotte and beyond:

📈 Top-Level Employment & Unemployment Data

U.S. Department of Labor – Employment Reports
Comprehensive collection of national, state, and local employment data, including:

National Employment + Wage Data
Broad overviews and sector-specific information on employment trends and job growth forecasts.

State + Local Data for North Carolina
Current workforce conditions across counties, including Mecklenburg, with breakdowns by industry and job type.

📊 Local Economic Reports + Job Market Insights

City of Charlotte – Economic Indicators Report (2023)
Data on job creation, business growth, and local economic shifts in Charlotte.
Download Report (PDF)

Charlotte Works – Job Board + Articles (Updated July 2024)
Charlotte’s local workforce development board offers jobs, training opportunities, and in-depth articles on labor challenges.
Explore Charlotte Works

For Charlotte – Employment & Workforce Summary (2013)
Historical overview with data insights related to workforce and job placement within faith-based and nonprofit communities.
View Report

📍 Wages, Salaries + Cost of Living

SmartAsset Salary Review + Living Wage Report (2024)
Breaks down salary expectations, wage requirements, and cost-of-living metrics across Charlotte. Verified by external sources.
Read SmartAsset Report

Salary.com – Charlotte Cost of Living Analysis (Nov. 2024)
Article explaining Charlotte’s cost of living, common wage benchmarks, and frequently asked financial questions.
Explore Cost of Living Data

Crisis Assistance Ministry – Living Wage Guide (April 2024)
Includes analysis of basic living expenses and the income required to meet them in Charlotte-Mecklenburg.
Read Article + Guide

🗺 Employer Listings + Business Community Reports

Indeed – Top Employers in Charlotte (Nov. 2024)
Ranked list of leading employers in the Charlotte metro area based on user reviews and hiring trends.
Explore List

U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Workforce Map
Interactive tool with quick facts about employment, education, and economic mobility by state and region.
Access the Map