Career Pathways

Abstract:

The role of the transition advisor for adult education in the U.S. is changing in tandem with our “post-pandemic” society as a whole. To identify the most salient of these changes and adapt our advising practices accordingly, we are implementing a “Shift & Impact Inventory.” By naming the major cultural shifts of the 2020s and assessing likely impact on transitions advising, we can adapt responsively to the new behavioral, economic, and cultural realities in AE students’ lives. Original webinar date: August 19, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/BqHdZ5GREos  

Abstract:

Join Catherine Greseth, executive director of the Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills and Kevin Baas, HR director with Holiday Inn, as they explain how to start the conversation regarding accommodations and what they may include. Learn how to help students/employees with disabilities advocate to create the productive, efficient workplace environments where they thrive. This webinar will include rights under the ADA, how to request and negotiate workplace accommodations, and how instructors can help students learn to navigate the process plus so much more. Original webinar date: May 24, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/rOJZnNL7_qU

Abstract:

Building on the first webinar, “Opportunities in SNAP E&T Part 1 – Introduction & The National Landscape,” panelists from the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development, Greater Memphis Local Workforce Development Board, Tennessee Department of Human Services, and University of Tennessee Extension’s SNAP Employment and Training Program will discuss the mechanics of strong coordination across programs and funding streams and share provider perspectives on serving individuals whose entry-points span across multiple systems. The panel will also examine the nexus between SNAP E&T and the broader elements of the workforce system including braiding and blending funding, managing administrative processes, and aligning information systems. The aim of this webinar is to encourage the use of SNAP E&T as a resource to enhance and expand existing workforce development programs and develop strategies to cohesively support participants as they move through multiple systems. Original webinar date: March 9, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/7b5iWIRxN3o

Abstract:

The first webinar in a two-part series will use a national perspective to introduce SNAP E&T as part of a broader workforce development ecosystem. Attendees will hear from representatives from the American Public Human Services Association, National Association of Workforce Boards, and other stakeholders to learn a basic overview of SNAP E&T and how it can be used to advance career pathways and supportive services that bolster economic mobility. Panelists will discuss how providers can integrate SNAP E&T as part of an overall workforce development strategy supported by multiple federal programs and funding streams such as WIOA programs, TANF, and others to create services that support individuals through cohesive pathways to career growth. Original webinar date: February 25, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/BpF1mtrQQUg

Abstract:

This interactive webinar will demonstrate best practices for using basic economics, personal finance, and entrepreneurship concepts, skills, and resources as impactful real-world contexts for teaching core academic subjects (math, English, science, social studies) and workforce skills. An emphasis will be placed on using economic reasoning skills and tools across subjects and skill levels to empower adults with limited education and income. This multidisciplinary integrative approach offers a 3-for-1 goal of achieving (1) increased comprehension of core academic subjects to pass HSE exams, (2) more informed decision-making for a more prosperous quality of life, and (3) more productive workforce and/or “side hustle” preparation for increased income and job satisfaction. Participants will practice thinking like an economist and an entrepreneur as well as collaborating and brainstorming opportunities to integrate economics, personal finance, and entrepreneurship content in a variety of adult instructional settings such as GED and literacy programs, workforce development trainings, and one-on-one counseling/coaching sessions. Classroom-ready, field-tested, easily customizable activity sheets, a list of 120+ additional free resources, and certificate of completion included. Original webinar date: January 13, 2022 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/3eZqyxFM1cI Webinar resources: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZTtN8_bLUBlpNr0VndiMkpls3bgdN6V1  

Abstract:

Are you looking to improve both your student recruitment and retention outcomes? Do you want to help your students learn English while they prepare for the jobs of the future? The EnGen team will provide insight into how a wide variety of programs have transitioned to blended, virtual, and career-focused language learning, and are personalizing the learning experience for each learner and their individual goals. Learn more about EnGen's approach to supporting career pathway transitions in healthcare, technology, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and many other growth sectors. We will use our latest career pathway, English for Pharmacy Technicians, as a real-life example of a turn-key solution for building this type of bridge program. Original webinar date: November 10, 2021 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/xFehhHsLd_0

Abstract:

IBM SkillsBuild is a free digital platform that connects adult learners with a curated path of job-focused learning. The platform has more than 11,000 badges and credentials, personal assessment testing, resume building, and courses that have been configured by COABE and IBM to help your learners develop technology and professional skills to increase their employability. Join us to jump start this opportunity in your local program! You will gain hands-on experience and a working knowledge of the platform. At the close of the webinar, you will be able to sign your adult learners up to explore the platform! Original webinar date: May 3, 2021 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/O2W2ZHplATY Webinar presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZIjhnJe9VtbgBEgvXyhU5znhmrlBb2_z8VPxtfCIIe4/edit#slide=id.p IBM SkillsBuild page: https://coabe.org/coabe-ibm-skillsbuild/ Template to sign up adult learners, volunteers, teachers: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14eM5xR4PneON2savBqNhAUoW89tC59UF/view?usp=sharing Questions: contact ibmskillsbuild@coabe.org

Abstract:

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, over half of respondents to a national Gallup poll reported not having a quality job, and respondents’ job quality had a strong influence on their quality of life. Decades of stagnant wages, eroding benefits, and declining employment security have left millions of Americans in unstable jobs. Structural inequality has placed a disproportionate burden on workers of color and women, and in turn the economic fragility of these workers’ households has left them bearing overwhelming burdens in the midst of our current health and economic crises. Organizations that educate workers and refer them to jobs are looking for new tools, approaches, and connections as they seek to address the growing challenge of job quality. The Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program developed our Job Quality Tools Library to provide actionable tools to help leaders adopt practices to strengthen job quality in their own organizations, in the businesses they work with, and in local labor markets. In this session, we’ll introduce the library, including sharing why and how we developed it, explaining how to navigate it, and providing guidance about how to use it in your work to strengthen jobs and racial equity for adult learners. We’ll focus on tools and approaches that you can put to work immediately as you respond to the current crisis. Original Webinar Date: February 18, 2021 Webinar Recording Link: https://youtu.be/2irDQM1rle0