Workforce Development for State and Local Government

State governments are undergoing a massive technology transformation. State agencies across the country are working hard to improve their cybersecurity defenses and modernize legacy systems. This transformation requires skilled and agile IT personnel who can adapt to any change that comes with modernization efforts.

To ensure personnel can keep up with the changes, agencies are increasing their investment in targeted training courses and workforce development programs. These initiatives not only build technical proficiency but also promote a culture of continuous learning and career growth within the public sector.

State agencies manage vast digital infrastructures critical to everything from national defense to disaster response. Unfortunately, many of these agencies do not have IT personnel who are skilled in the most current technological trends. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has repeatedly identified IT workforce challenges as a top risk area across government operations.

Workforce development plays a crucial role in addressing skill gaps. By offering training courses that keep current employees up to date with emerging technologies, agencies can retain talent, reduce dependence on contractors and build institutional knowledge. Training also ensures that your staff is equipped to implement strategic priorities such as zero trust architecture, cloud migration and data-driven decision-making.

1. Cybersecurity and Zero Trust

Cyberthreats to state systems are growing in sophistication and scale. As a result, cybersecurity training is among the top priorities. Offered courses focus on:

Threat detection and incident response

• Risk management and compliance (e.g., NIST frameworks)
• Implementing zero trust architecture
• Secure software development (DevSecOps)

Training courses such as these, that can be customized to fit your agency and personnel needs, can help keep your agency agile and secure, especially with constantly evolving cyber threats.

2. Cloud Computing and Infrastructure Modernization

The shift to cloud-based services is central to the state IT strategy. Training helps employees understand:

• Cloud architecture (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
• AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud platforms
• Migrating legacy systems to cloud
• Managing hybrid and multicloud environments

3. Data Science and AI Integration

As state agencies embrace data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI), workforce development must support these capabilities. Training offerings include:

• Data visualization and storytelling (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Python and R for data analysis
• Machine learning fundamentals
• Responsible and ethical AI implementation

4. Project Management and Agile Methodologies

Digital transformation requires more than technical know-how, it demands strategic project execution. Popular training topics include:

• Agile and Scrum certifications
• ITIL and service management
• Project management professional (PMP)
• Human-centered design and design thinking

These courses empower state employees to lead and collaborate on cross-functional technology initiatives more effectively.

Despite the progress prioritizing digital workforce development, several challenges persist:

• Budget constraints may limit access to high-quality training.
• Retention of trained personnel remains difficult in a competitive labor market.
• Standardization across agencies can be inconsistent, leading to fragmented efforts.

However, opportunities also abound:

• The Chief Human Capital Officers (CHCO) Council is working to align workforce development with future state technology needs.
• The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and CHIPS and Science Act include provisions to support digital workforce development.
• Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are being explored for immersive learning experiences.

CDW offers a comprehensive suite of IT and cybersecurity training programs designed to equip individuals and organizations with the skills needed to navigate today's constantly evolving digital landscape. Our courses cover a broad spectrum of topics, including incident response, cloud architecture, application development, identity and access management, security operations and cloud security.

Emphasizing hands-on experience, CDW's instructor-led courses allocate 60–70% of class time to practical exercises, including simulations, labs and case studies. This approach facilitates immediate application of skills and fosters deeper understanding. Additionally, CDW offers flexible delivery methods, including online and in-person sessions, to accommodate diverse learning preferences.

CDW provides customized development programs that align with specific business objectives and technological infrastructures. Our expert sales teams work closely with you to guarantee your agency only gets the courses you need with the most effective delivery, to ensure your staff retains the content and can successfully carry out the adoption of new technologies.

Developing the IT workforce is no longer a nice-to-have — it's a national imperative. As the state government embraces digital transformation, continuous learning will be the cornerstone of resilient, secure and citizen-centric services. By investing in training that spans cybersecurity, cloud, data science and agile practices, agencies can empower their workforce to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s innovations head-on.