Dr. Richard Rhodes’ from Austin Community College (ACC) spoke with our team to give input on how we can best serve all learners with the Workforce Development division. Dr. Rhodes was able to speak from experience of how ACC was able to significantly raise enrollment by lowering barriers of cost and improving access to support. The discussion validated many activities the VSCS is already doing, and with transformation we can expand and improve these options. Some highlights from the talk included:
- Intentional focus to elevate all members of the workforce.
- Involving local business as stake holders to be able to provide relevant workforce skills to help employment – both in elevating those already working and by providing needed skills/support to those who are under or unemployed.
- Equity needs to be a driving principle. Learners from all backgrounds need to be able to access workforce development programing provided by VSCS.
- Provide training to “non-typical” students. Question how the very systems of higher education are creating barriers to access.
- Provide student support services of all types – not just academic support, but access to food assistance, housing assistance, etc.