When Seattle’s Workforce Shifts, We Respond With Support

Seattle's economy continues to change, and for many workers that change arrives as a layoff, a disrupted career path, or the need to start over in an unfamiliar field.

A recent Seattle Times guest column by contributor Al Kemp looks at what career change can mean in this moment, especially for people navigating job loss and uncertainty. The piece includes perspectives from two WDC colleagues, Kristan Lortz and Harpreet Marwah, on the kinds of support workers need when work changes suddenly.

Supporting People Through Disruption

Through her Rapid Response work at the WDC, Kristan Lortz works directly with individuals facing layoffs, closures, and sudden job changes — often at moments of real stress and uncertainty. Her perspective reflects the practical, human-centered work behind layoff response: "We all play a part in guiding them toward pathways that we hope will lead to successful and meaningful employment."

That commitment is central to what the WDC and WorkSource do every day: helping people connect to resources, training, and guidance so they can identify a realistic next step — whether that means finding a new role, exploring a different industry, or taking time to regroup and plan.

A Career Change Can Be Personal and Difficult

Harpreet Marwah brings a perspective shaped by lived experience. After moving from the tech industry into public service, she understands both the difficulty and the deliberation that can come with a career pivot. As she notes, "Seattle's economy is dynamic, and the ability to pivot thoughtfully is becoming a core professional skill."

Her experience reflects a reality many workers face: career change is not always planned, and it often comes with uncertainty. With the right information, support, and time, though, people can move through that transition with more clarity.

Read the Full Feature

We appreciate Al Kemp and The Seattle Times for examining the realities workers are facing — and the systems of support that can help. Read the full article here to hear more from Kristan, Harpreet, and others on navigating Seattle’s evolving job market.