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Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 3, 2025
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

New Skill Explorer Helps Job Seekers Navigate Career Options

Upgraded online tool provides more resources to an expanded audience

MADISON – For those looking for a job in the new year, the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) offers a free online tool to help find the perfect match. DWD's updated Skill Explorer helps job seekers discover opportunities that fit their experience and abilities while navigating career paths more effectively.

Developed by DWD's Bureau of Workforce Information and Technical Support (BWITS), Bureau of Job Service and Office of IT Coordination, Skill Explorer allows job seekers to search for job openings based on their acquired skills. Skill Explorer uses advanced technology to analyze skill sets and produces occupational categories spanning various industries. Users can explore careers by experience level, career groupings, or education level. The tool provides useful information for job seekers of all levels - from entry-level, career-changers, or career climbers. Employers, educators, students, parents, and others can also benefit.

"Our updated Skill Explorer helps more people find the right job opportunities based on what they already know and do well," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a change, Skill Explorer can help you. It's a smart way to widen your career options and find a great job."

Unlike traditional job search platforms that focus on job listings, Skill Explorer evaluates a user's current skill set and highlights transferable skills that can open new doors. It also introduces users to careers they might not have considered but are a good match. Enhanced features include comprehensive career planning support, such as a job center locator, education resources, a certification resource locator, and links to useful resources like apprenticeship opportunities and internships through WisConnect.

"The updated Skill Explorer greatly expands the career realm for job seekers. It identifies a user's current occupational skills and illustrates overlaps in careers users may not have ever considered," said BWITS Director Dennis Winters. "Moreover, it identifies what additional skills may be acquired to pursue a new career path."

DWD first launched Skill Explorer in 2013. The enhanced tool now delivers a modern and simple user experience to help job seekers explore career pathways. Its innovative star rating system showcases jobs that are in demand. Start exploring today by visiting skillexplorer.wisconsin.gov.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.