Public Health Data Strategy Workforce Acceleration
The Workforce Acceleration Initiative (WAI): Driving Data Modernization and Impact
Across the nation, many of today’s public health systems are running on yesterday’s technologies and out-of-date information and data connections.
Improving this digital infrastructure is going to require updated equipment, new policies and the addition of skilled technical professionals at all levels.
The Workforce Acceleration Initiative (WAI) focuses on providing the data and technology experts needed to accelerate these information system improvements and bolster the ability of public health agencies to serve all communities equally.
Learn more at the official launch announcement.
Our Workforce
Forty-nine public health agencies (PHAs) have been selected and over 125 WAI Placements have been hired. From data scientists to engineers, WAI continues to chart a path for better outcomes in public health.
See the full list of participating public health agencies highlighted on the official launch announcement.
WAI Projects
WAI Placements are actively involved in projects that are modernizing public health infrastructure and leading to tangible improvements in our ability to protect and serve communities.
INFOGRAPHIC: Learn More About Our Projects
WAI Resources
More than 90% of WAI Placements came from outside public health. This core training curriculum helped them quickly integrate and contribute to public health information systems. An evaluation of 104 Placements showed 40–60 point gains across all 23 competencies, confirming the curriculum meets the needs of those new to the field. This model can help PHAs onboard contractors, train new hires, and upskill staff—regardless of prior public health experience.
WAI developed 11 ready-to-use technology job description templates that PHAs can easily adapt to their needs. Using tech-friendly language and titles, the templates help attract candidates from diverse backgrounds, making it easier for PHAs to build strong tech teams.
Public Health Agency Information Infrastructure Maturity Model
This model was originally developed by the CDC Foundation to evaluate WAI PHA system improvements. Currently, the model can be used as a tool to support any PHA, no matter its size or type, to determine how to modernize its information structure. It also clarifies how updates, even basic improvements, fit in with an overall Public Health Data Strategy.
Public Health IT & Informatics: Communities, Committees and Other Groups
IT and informatics professionals can join these groups to connect with other public health agencies, collaborate on shared solutions, and stay informed on emerging developments. These networks are key to advancing public health systems.
For more information, contact WAI@cdcfoundation.org.
The Workforce Acceleration Initiative is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $73,945,916 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Association of Public Health Laboratories
- United States of America
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