Edtech and Workforce Development News Roundup - 9/5
- Heather Harman
- Sep 5
- 4 min read
Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce development, and venture capital news.
Welcome to our latest News Roundup, where we explore cutting-edge developments shaping the future of workforce development, education, and technology. As the US faces challenges around economic mobility and evolving industry demands, innovative models and strategic initiatives are emerging to create more inclusive, adaptive, and effective pathways to employment. From pioneering risk-sharing funding approaches and digital career readiness tools to the introduction of Workforce Pell and AI skills prioritization, the articles this week highlight how collaboration, technology, and policy are transforming the education and workforce development industries. Whether you're an educator, employer, policymaker, or learner, staying informed on these trends is key to navigating and shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
Innovative models for workforce development: Sharing the risks and rewards – The decline in economic mobility in the US calls for bold, innovative workforce solutions that share risks among stakeholders, moving beyond isolated efforts. Recent models demonstrate success by linking funding to outcomes, involving employers directly in financing training, and providing wraparound support to workers. Examples include the ReNEW Fund, which offers outcome-based loans to nursing students; Google’s Career Certificate Fund, recycling repayment capital with comprehensive support; Philadelphia’s pay-for-success initiatives tied to employee retention; and First Step Staffing’s social enterprise model serving hard-to-employ populations. These approaches foster sustainable ecosystems that better align training, employment, and community needs, reimagining workforce development for the modern economy amidst technological change.
Reimagining Career Readiness through Digital CTE – Edtech and workforce development companies have a significant opportunity to enhance career and technical education (CTE) by leveraging digital platforms to broaden access and personalize learning pathways. With high student engagement in CTE and educators recognizing its importance for postsecondary success, digital CTE can make career readiness more relevant and accessible through innovative tools that simulate workplace experiences, showcase emerging tech careers, and support skill development in critical areas like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. By introducing digital career exploration early in education and providing adaptable, integrated solutions, these companies can help students explore diverse pathways, be it degrees, certifications, or direct workforce entry, preparing a future-ready workforce aligned with rapidly evolving industry demands.
Preparing for Workforce Pell – The introduction of Workforce Pell funding is poised to significantly enhance workforce development by increasing access to short-term training programs, particularly for low-income and underrepresented students, both in the near and long term. In the short term, community colleges anticipate that Workforce Pell will enable them to offer federally funded, employer-relevant programs like medical assisting, trucking, and certifications, which could lead to faster credentialing and job placement. This expansion may also help address inequities by making quick, workforce-ready certificates more accessible to adult learners and first-generation students. In the long term, Workforce Pell could foster a more responsive and efficient workforce training system by encouraging program alignment with labor market demands, reducing program length barriers, and promoting stackable credentials. However, successful implementation will depend on regulatory clarity and institutional adjustments, with some institutions already gaining insights from prior experimental programs. Overall, Workforce Pell has the potential to accelerate workforce development efforts, improve employment outcomes, and create a more equitable and flexible training environment.
How to start the year off strong with new tech – Building strong relationships is essential for effective edtech implementation, as demonstrated by Mountain View Los Alton Union High School District's experience during the pandemic. Director of IT Bob Fishtrom prioritized deploying user-friendly classroom technology, such as advanced audio/visual systems and docking monitors, to support remote and in-person learning. These innovations significantly improved accessibility and classroom engagement, with teachers embracing the tools due to streamlined setup and clear support. Fishtrom emphasizes the importance of collaborating with vendors to align technology with district goals and advocates for a phased approach to introduce new tools gradually, ensuring teachers adapt comfortably. Overall, thoughtful integration of classroom tech, coupled with strong vendor partnerships, has been proven to positively impact teaching and learning environments.
How to get non-traditional learners more career-focused – New guidance from The Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice encourages colleges to expand internships, apprenticeships, and career activities to non-traditional students, including adults and online learners, who now make up over a third of enrollment. Edtech and workforce development companies can play a vital role by providing industry-aligned curricula, skills assessments, and career coaching tools to tailor learning to individual needs. They can facilitate work-based learning programs like internships and apprenticeships, embed soft and technical skills into coursework, and develop platforms that connect students with relevant job market data. Additionally, offering paid opportunities and integrating career development resources within digital learning environments can increase accessibility and engagement, helping institutions better support diverse learners in their career pathways.
1 in 3 hiring managers won’t hire workers who don’t have AI skills – Despite the fact that 95% of organizations that have adopted AI have yet to see a significant return on investment, companies are increasingly viewing AI as essential for their workforce, as highlighted by a Nexford University survey of 1,000 U.S. individuals. The survey reveals that AI adoption is linked to layoffs, with 31% of companies citing it as a reason, and nearly half of employers prefer to retain workers proficient in AI. Additionally, one-third of hiring managers are hiring only those skilled in AI. Laid-off workers, especially younger ones, recognize the importance of AI skills, with many turning to online tutorials and courses to reskill, spending about six hours weekly on learning. However, barriers such as cost and uncertainty about what to learn remain. Overall, while AI investment hasn't yet yielded broad financial returns, both employers and workers see AI as a crucial skill for future employment, aligning with the insights from Nexford.
As we reflect on these recent advancements, it's clear that the future of work hinges on bold innovation, equitable access, and continuous adaptation. Embracing digital tools, rethinking funding models, and prioritizing critical skills like AI will be essential in building a resilient, skilled, and inclusive workforce. By leveraging these insights and strategies, stakeholders can work together to create sustainable ecosystems that support lifelong learning and economic mobility for all.