All week we've brought you stories of industries in Massachusetts — and western Mass, in particular — struggling to find qualified workers to fill open positions. But there are still plenty of people looking for work who haven't been able to land a job.

MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board CEO Peter Farkas talks about the staffing situation in Holyoke and Springfield — and how a major grant could address the situation.

An ongoing shortage of public educators in the U.S. includes a need for K-12 school counselors in western Massachusetts.

The MGM Springfield is a big part of the hospitality industry in western Massachusetts. Like many other businesses, it's been struggling to attract workers in certain sectors. We visit a line-cook class at Holyoke Community College funded by the casino.

Although there is a shortage of CNAs or certified nursing assistants in Massachusetts, the state certification exam has been an obstacle to English language learners. Starting this summer, the state will also offer the exam in Spanish, Chinese and Haitian Creole.

There is a staffing shortage in western Massachusetts. Yet for some employers, people with disabilities are being overlooked as a potential solution.

Employers and the economy in Massachusetts are being affected by too few workers. We take a look at the Senate's proposed spending plan through the lens of the workforce.

For NEPM's Short-Staffed series, we asked students what they are looking for in a future employer — and then we asked employers what they want in applicants.