Educational Vocational Models for Building Workforce Competencies

Abstract

Introduction

One corollary to the nation’s current high unemployment rate is the even more acute problem of joblessness among youth age 16–24 (Covenant House Institute 2009).In Philadelphia, some estimates place that number at over 20 percent. As the region’s economy recovers, albeit slowly, job prospects for some will improve. However, the outlook for many young people who lack the skills to compete in the current labor market is not as bright.

Research demonstrates that an individual’s education and skills training levels significantly affect employability and earning potential (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2009). With an increasing demand for an information-based workforce, persons without at least a high school diploma are at a serious economic disadvantage, the fiscal and social implications of which have been well documented.  (See Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board http://pwib.org/data_publications/ and Philadelphia Youth Network http://www.pyninc.org/programs/21st-century.php.)

Some jobs with above-average earnings do not require a bachelor's degree, but most require substantial training (between six months and a year). In addition to requiring technical training, workers in the new economy must possess a more varied skill set that includes professionalism, the ability to collaborate, and strong written and verbal communications. The paradox in today’s employment market is that at the same time that we have near-record unemployment rates, employers say that they still have difficulty finding enough new workers who possess these “21st-century” skills. This mismatch between labor force supply and demand has sparked efforts to develop effective practices that provide out-of-school and at-risk youth with learning opportunities that will lead to postsecondary education and career pathways.

The fact that so many of today’s youth are not prepared to enter postsecondary education or the workforce is of great concern to policymakers, educators and business leaders. In response to this crisis, a number of innovative approaches to building workforce competencies are emerging. JEVS Human Services’ approach to bridging the skill gap is represented by two evidence-based programs funded by the Philadelphia Youth Network.