SARASOTA COUNTY — The Sarasota County Commission unanimously endorsed a workforce-development plan Wednesday aimed at helping to create skilled workers for local businesses and manufacturers.

At a joint meeting between the County Commission and the Sarasota County School Board in August, the commission directed County Administrator Randall Reid to work with the district and return with a structural plan of action on workforce needs. After a series of several meetings of groups involved with workforce development and planning, a report was written with a purpose to “bridge the skill gaps limiting unemployed, entry-level workers and students from progressing into higher-paying careers.” The report also looks to correct the misalignment of resources between education partners — such as district schools — and community agencies and employers.