San Bernardino County's “Hidden Gem”

“A hidden gem” is how Evan Cohen, President and CEO of Quality Marble and Granite in Ontario, describes the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board. Cohen received assistance through the board’s On-the-Job Training and recruitment services. “One of the challenges a small company like ours faces is the inability to pay the same rates as larger companies,” Cohen explained about quality recruitment. “The Workforce Development Board was extremely helpful in getting good people in here at comparable industry wages through their On-the-Job Training program.” Candidates from the Workforce Development Board became qualified employees when they completed training at Quality Marble and Granite. Cohen has retained nearly a dozen employees. The federally-funded On-the-Job Training program provides partial wage reimbursement to employers during a new hire’s designated training period, up to 90 days. “Our Business Services Team is charged with ensuring that businesses in our County receive supportive services necessary to achieve and maintain success,” said James Ramos, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chairman. “It’s incumbent on us to foster industry and job growth to develop a vibrant economy.” Darren Cook, Workforce Development Board Business Services Representative, works closely with Quality Marble and Granite. According to Cohen, he is a team player. “Through Darren we have a County employee rooting for us and supporting us by providing the resources we need to succeed,” Cohen said. “The County proved it has my best interest at heart.” Other Workforce Development Board services available to businesses in San Bernardino County include a free human resources hotline, lean operating specialists, business advisors, workshops, recruitment services, labor market data and more. “Our Business Services Representatives go above and beyond to ensure the businesses they work with are provided with impactful services,” said Workforce Development Board Executive Director Sandy Harmsen. “Evan and Darren’s relationship is just one example of how personal connections are formed between the County and local businesses.” As an active member of the business community and one who has benefited tremendously from its services, Cohen eagerly promotes the Workforce Development Board. “There are fantastic opportunities for businesses to succeed in this county,” Cohen said. “The Workforce Development Board is one of the great gems of our region.”