Betsy Revell and Marie Mackintosh on EmployIndy and Modern Apprenticeships
Aug 21, 2024
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Betsy Revell, Senior VP of Career Connected Learning, and Marie Mackintosh, President and CEO of EmployIndy, dive into the world of tech apprenticeships in Indianapolis. They share how initiatives like Accelerate Ed are creating equitable pathways in education. The discussion highlights the importance of personalized educational pathways tied to IT and cybersecurity careers. They also emphasize empowering students to explore career options early and the critical role of community partnerships in shaping students' futures.
Apprenticeship programs in Indianapolis are designed to provide high school students with practical skills and career preparedness in fields like IT and healthcare.
The equitable pathways approach focuses on ensuring all students have access to apprenticeship opportunities by addressing barriers and creating an inclusive learning environment.
Deep dives
Empowering Students Through Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship programs are being developed to provide students in Indianapolis with valuable workforce experiences in fields like IT and healthcare. These programs are designed to start in high school, enabling students to gain practical skills while still pursuing their education. For example, students engage in a three-year apprenticeship experience, which includes job placements, industry certifications, and earning post-secondary credits. Such initiatives aim to prepare students for demands in the job market by offering them a clear pathway to career preparedness.
Creating Equitable Pathways to Career Opportunities
The concept of equitable pathways emphasizes ensuring all students have access to apprenticeship opportunities regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. This involves addressing barriers such as transportation and providing personalized information that resonates with students’ individual needs. The goal is to create an inclusive environment where every student can engage in career-connected learning, paving the way for a future career. This approach not only facilitates participation but also contributes to the overall economic mobility of the community.
Building Partnerships for Sustainable Education Solutions
Partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations play a crucial role in the success of apprenticeship programs. Collaborations like those with Ivy Tech Community College aim to bridge the gap between high school and post-secondary education, enhancing the available resources for students. Business engagement is essential for creating real-world opportunities that enable students to explore various career paths. These collective efforts ensure that students are supported throughout their educational journey and equipped with the skills needed to thrive in their chosen fields.
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers is joined by Betsy Revell, Senior Vice President of Career Connected Learning, and Marie Mackintosh, President and CEO of EmployIndy. They discuss the organization's efforts to provide Indianapolis students with access to tech apprenticeships through initiatives like Accelerate Ed, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.