Affordable, high-quality education and training is essential for an inclusive economic recovery. Too often, however, financial assistance programs are not accessible to working adults or fail to incorporate in-demand skills training. Some states have taken the lead in developing strategies that address these barriers, including through college promise programs, cross-system partnerships, and alignment of federal and state funding streams. This panel discussion will share creative approaches to expanding affordable access to skills training at community colleges and the economic and equity imperative driving these solutions. Panelists will examine the actions needed at the state and federal levels to make the spectrum of high-quality education and training accessible for more people, including strategies to build political and public will.
Moderator:
– Lindsey Reichlin Cruse
Panelists:
– Kenyatta Lovett, Managing Director for Higher Education, Educate Texas, Communities Foundation of Texas
– Deniece Thomas, Deputy Commissioner, TN Dept of Labor and Workforce Development
– Girard Melancon, CEO/Founder of Durango Works and National Skills Coalition Board Chair
NSC Resources:
A foundational report guiding NSC’s advocacy work:
State Pathways publication from NSC
NSC’s listening sessions about workforce system transformation
Other Resources:
