Pandemic Triggers Dallas Workforce Study

DALLAS — The mayor's office announced a new partnership Monday to examine COVID-19's affect on the local workforce.

Funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the study will be conducted by Cicero Group, and will investigate challenges to the workforce and how available jobs have been impacted by the coronavirus.

The deep-dive investigation also intends to highlight skills gaps in the area as well as growth citywide.

According to a statement from Mayor Eric Johnson's office, Cicero Group will be tasked with making "concrete, actionable recommendations for how the city and other partners can move the needle on the issue." The grant will be managed by Dallas College, the statement said.

Dr. Joe May, the Dallas College Chancellor, also spoke at the mayor's briefing Monday. He said, that the pandemic has changed the business landscape "and has accelerated some changes that were already underway, such as automation. We need to be at the forefront of these changes so Dallas and its people can continue to thrive. "

Policy and Communications Chief Tristan Hallman said that results of the study are expected sometime in September.