WDB Rapid Response and Kohl’s: A model for effective workforce transitions

Over 300 San Bernardino Kohl’s Distribution Center associates attended an on-site employment resources event held Feb. 26 organized with assistance from the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board’s Rapid Response team.

Since 2010, the San Bernardino Kohl’s E-commerce Distribution Center has moved millions of Kohl’s orders throughout the region. Over the years, the center became more than just a workplace—it was a hub where many people built careers, friendships and a strong culture of support and growth.

Cory Williams, the senior human resources manager for the center’s more than 600 dedicated Kohl’s associates, recognized the significance of that culture. “Our associates are what made this a top-performing distribution center and we are committed to providing them with all the assistance and resources possible,” said Williams.

When Kohl’s announced plans to close the distribution center at the end of its lease term in May, Williams and his team took swift, proactive action, crafting a comprehensive transition plan that exceeded expectations. Kohl’s even halted production for a day to provide associates with a paid day that consisted of an on-site Employment Resources and Job Fair event, coordinated in partnership with the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board.

In the event of a workforce layoff, WDB receives Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notices and rapidly mobilizes its Rapid Response team to connect displaced workers with local companies and organizations actively hiring. The team also provides critical resources, tools and information to ensure a seamless transition into new employment opportunities. In this case, Kohl’s was proactive, contacting collaborative partners to build the most effective and resourceful efforts in assisting their associates.

WDB collaborated with Kohl’s to develop a full day of on-site employment resources, offering morning and evening information, resource sessions and a recruitment event. Representatives from San Bernardino County Workforce Development, Child Support Services and the California Employment Development Department conducted the information sessions, and 20 employers registered for the on-site recruiting event. Over 300 associates participated in the morning session and the following job fair, networking and even interviewing on the spot with recruiters.

During the morning session, several associates approached Williams to share their enthusiasm about connecting with some of the organizations attending the recruiting event. “We created a job board to help our associates prepare for on-site interviews with today’s recruiters. Their level of engagement here only further demonstrates the commitment and work ethic that their next employer will benefit from,” said Williams.

For many, the transition is bittersweet. David Malgra, a five-year Kohl’s associate, began as a material handler and worked up to a problem solver role. “I always felt the warmth and inclusion each time I walked into a Kohl’s store, so I applied and was offered a full-time associate position right away. It’s really hard to let go, but at the same time, I feel ready for something new,” said Malgra.

County officials praised Kohl’s for setting a standard in ethical business closures, emphasizing the collaborative model that all businesses should follow.

“Kohl’s willingness to partner with the county to ensure a smooth transition for their employees demonstrates what a great community partner they are. These resources are critical to someone who unexpectedly loses employment. I commend our workforce development team for their incredible work and dedication,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe.

WDB Chairman William Sterling underscored the importance of partnerships, stating, “WDB takes pride in being responsive, going where we are needed when we are needed. We serve the largest county in the United States, spanning over 20,000 square miles, which speaks to WDB’s dedication to directly meeting the needs of our communities—whether it’s someone seeking employment opportunities or businesses in need of resources.”

Beyond job and career placement, WDB resources include individualized job search and resume assistance, and connection with veterans’ services, skills certifications, on-the-job training and financial assistance for training, information on unemployment benefits, COBRA, 401(k) options, the Affordable Care Act and child support assistance, and more. For more information on Workforce Development Board programs, call 1-800-451-JOBS (5627) or visit one of our county’s three America’s Job Centers of California, or go to our website.

Additional County Update News – March 6, 2025