Boosting Youth Workforce Readiness

Thursday, October 28, 2021 | 12:00 PM Central, 1:00 PM Eastern

What are the unique needs and opportunities for youth in the current workforce landscape and how can libraries help? The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the workforce readiness track and educational path for today's young adults. In the past, many young people have pursued part-time employment and the development of skills and interests in anticipation of college or career readiness. In the aftermath of COVID-19, many now face the necessity of working to help with household expenses, watching younger siblings while parents work, and a lack of Internet access, resulting in them falling behind in their workforce readiness.

This 90 minute webinar-the fifth in the Public Libraries: Partners in Workforce Development series-will look at programs happening in both formal and informal learning environments that are helping youth develop essential skills and experiences to be successful in pursuit of their interests and skills, including work-based learning opportunities, apprenticeships, and more. REGISTER NOW!

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Identify current trends happening post-COVID regarding youth and the workforce;
• Identify available resources and partnerships at the national and local level to support youth skills and development in workforce; and
• Apply best practices and recommendations from libraries that are currently supporting youth in their workforce/entrepreneurial skill development and goals in their communities.

Instructors

• Kate Aubin (she/hers), Head of Youth Services, Providence (RI) Public Library
• Janelle Duray, Executive Vice President, Jobs for America's Graduates
• Marquita Friday, Director of Career Programs, Division of Career and College Readiness, Maryland State Department of Education
• Jennifer Griffin, Career Programs and Apprenticeship Specialist, Division of Career and College Readiness, Maryland State Department of Education