JOB DEMANDS AND FORMATIVE NEEDS ANALYSIS IN THE SIERRA NORTE REGION (MADRID).

Abstract

This communication reports the analysis of the most important economic and business activities in Sierra Norte (Madrid) and its formative needs at a local level. Its main objective is to identify formative necessities at a local level through a monitoring process of the most demanded professional profiles required to satisfy local labor market needs. The final aim is to improve efficiency in the design of future educational programs in the area through policymakers advice. The “Sierra Norte” region presents a strong rural character. It is the region with the most important natural heritage. It is composed by forty four municipalities. Service sector represents the most important part of local economy market. During the past three years an important number of construction and industry companies - normally SMEs - have been closed. Traditional agriculture and livestock farming levels are lately remaining at a constant level. Tourism associated to rural and leisure activity has grown importance in the past times and is now a key sector for the future local development. The methodology used for this research process was the municipal statistic data analysis, complemented with a participatory process based on non-directive interviews with the main actors involved in the local labor market and the final report writing. Key words: employment; territorial identity; rural formative plans.