On Wednesday, March 29th, held our MAX Academy on the Interconnectedness of Skills-based Coaching and Equitable Approaches, a workshop powered by the Markle Foundation in conjunction with the Rework America Alliance.
More than 50 workforce developers came together to explore how skills-based coaching can become the standard for more effective career coaching that empowers individuals who have the skills needed by employers but may not have a degree or credentials.
Trenae Thomas, Manager of Workforce Equity, with the Markle Foundation, led the workshop. Markle’s Dr. Joy Coates, Bill Turner, and Max GIbbons also joined MAX to engage an interactive learning experience with MAX Academy attendees.
Key discussion points regarding why a skills-based approached matters were covered during this MAX Academy, such as:
- Over 100 million Americans do not have college degrees. While they have built capabilities through other means, their talents are often unrecognized.
- The challenges of the pandemic have been followed by unprecedented labor shortages.
- Racial disparities prevent equitable access to job opportunities.
- Technology and automation are displacing workers at accelerated rates.
- Enrollment in higher education has been declining.
| Traditional Approach | Skills-Based Approach |
| Relies on job titles and educational credentials to pass fast screening processes | Clearly highlights the relevant skills needed for job success with priority over where they were learned |
| Highlights consecutive job titles with descriptions of job tasks | Experience and job tasks are framed based on the skills learned that are relevant to the job opportunity |
| Lack of strategies to navigate inequitable practices by employers that screen out resumes | Conscious writing of resume to navigate biases and barriers within the job posting and hiring process created by the employer |
The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) approved this workshop to count for 3 hours of continuing education for Certified Rehabilitation Counselors (CRCs).
Special thanks to: