The Lucas County Department of Planning and Development was created by the Board of Lucas County Commissioners in the summer of 2014 when the staff of the Lucas County Economic Development Corporation was integrated into the Workforce Development Agency. The combined organization brought together two groups with a similar goal of helping build a stronger business community and to create jobs. Under a unified banner, the Department of Planning and Development provides a dynamic solution to the challenges faced by employers and workers alike. Through WorkReady Lucas County, the Department also promotes the need for a skilled workforce and encourages businesses to support the WorkReady initiative. With an improving economy, opportunities for workers abound yet many still struggle to find quality employment because they lack essential skills. By working with employers to help them understand the positive impact of WorkReady Lucas County and to recognize the value of the National Career Readiness Certificate, the Department of Planning and Development can encourage job seekers to certify their skills and make themselves WorkReady.