Bridge Training Programs Making a Difference
NEW YORK, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — A pioneering survey, released today, shows that behind the dismal jobs news, there is some good news.
The “Bridge Program” report, produced by Workforce Strategy Center with support from The Joyce Foundation, offers the first national look at programs that help the lowest skilled and paid workers get the academic, employability and technical skills to qualify for higher paid jobs that require more education. Developing such an educated workforce is vital to tackling our unprecedented unemployment and underemployment.
In the past, adult education programs have been criticized for producing disappointing results. Now, the new report shows a sea change is taking place in how these programs function and work with local industries, giving the workers the kind of skills needed for today’s job market.
“For years, many of us have been saying that adult education and skills training needs to be more focused on employer demand with an emphasis on postsecondary credentialing. The survey results suggest we are moving in the right direction,” says Julian L. Alssid, Executive Director of Workforce Strategy Center.
Among the findings of the report based on reporting from 515 programs in 34 states:
- Over 67% of the students who enter the programs go on to higher training
- Over 50% are ready for college level courses at the end of the programs
- Seventy-five percent of the programs target allied health
- Programs are concentrated in states where there has been supportive state policy or private foundation investment
For more information on the survey, specific programs making a difference, or interviews please contact Julian L. Alssid at jalssid@workforcestrategy.org or 917-209-9398.
Workforce Strategy Center (WSC) is one of America’s most experienced non-profits working to grow the nation’s economy by producing a prosperous and globally competitive workforce. WSC helps workers and business advance by making education and workforce development more responsive to the economy. To learn more about WSC, please visit our website at www.workforcestrategy.org.
SOURCE Workforce Strategy Center
CONTACT: Julian L. Alssid of Workforce Strategy Center, +1-917-209-9398, jalssid@workforcestrategy.org
Web Site: http://www.workforcestrategy.org