The Atlanta Workforce Development Agency (AWDA) is a bureau of the City of Atlanta under the Executive Offices of the Mayor. AWDA, formerly, the Private Industry Council of Atlanta, Inc., changed its name in 2000 when the State implemented the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998. AWDA's primary purpose is to administer employment and training programs mandated under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 to the citizens of Atlanta to offer workforce solution services to the metro Atlanta businesses.

Under WIA mandates, the State is subdivided into workforce development areas based on a set of parameters relating to poverty, unemployment, the employed and the labor market demand. Each local area must have a Board of Directors and have a physical location, or a One-Stop Center, where workforce development services are universally accessible. Additionally, each local area must partner with state, community colleges, public schools, community and faith based organizations in the delivery of workforce development services. The local Board designated AWDA to be its One-Stop Center operator, and AWDA is responsible for the management of the day-to-day workforce development activities.