#United States #Washington #Skills Initiative #C-BEN #Walmart Foundation

C-BEN Launches Powering Trust in Skills Initiative

Introduction

In an era where skill visibility and equitable opportunity are crucial, the Competency-Based Education Network (C-BEN) has launched a new initiative titled Powering Trust in Skills. This initiative, supported by the Walmart Foundation, aims to assist states, territories, and tribal governments in building a robust public skills infrastructure to meet real-world labor market needs. Furthermore, C-BEN has introduced the guidebook, Governing Talent Market Places: A Guide for State Leaders, co-created with the National Governors Association (NGA). This guide serves to empower state leaders in creating skills-based ecosystems.

The Initiative's Objectives

The primary aim of this initiative is to reduce barriers and enhance the connection between talent and job opportunities. According to Amber Garrison Duncan, executive vice president of C-BEN, trusted public infrastructure is vital as states assume a leading role in transitioning to a skills-based economy. This initiative reflects a belief that education and employment systems should revolve around the actual knowledge and skills of individuals.

Supporting States and Territories

C-BEN plans to support 35 states, territories, and tribal governments through auditing and aligning cross-agency skills practices using a vetted governance framework. There will be partnerships with state leadership organizations to produce practical resources like case studies and policy briefs that share effective governance models, thereby facilitating smooth transitions to skills-based talent marketplaces.

Technology and Skills Data

A pivotal aspect of the initiative involves gathering skills-first practitioners and technology leaders to develop shared guidance on the responsible use of skills data and AI. This approach aims to ensure that emerging technologies prioritize skills, foster trust, and broaden access to opportunities while promoting economic mobility.

Transition to Skills-Based Economy

The launch of this initiative aligns with the U.S. Department of Education's Connecting Talent to Opportunity Challenge, indicating increased federal backing for skills-based reforms nationwide. As states develop these talent marketplaces, C-BEN will provide technical assistance to create interoperable technology infrastructures, ensuring that policies and governance frameworks are founded on trust and transparency.

Impact on Various States

C-BEN has already made strides in states like Alabama and Arkansas, demonstrating the transformative power of skills assessment and validation in reshaping career pathways. Furthermore, initiatives in Tennessee and Washington showcase C-BEN’s commitment to expanding apprenticeships, which allow educators to earn credentials while they teach.

Conclusion

The Powering Trust in Skills initiative is a significant step towards creating a future where skills are the currency of the economy. By establishing reliable infrastructures, C-BEN aims to transform how individuals connect to educational and work opportunities, ensuring a talent marketplace that is cohesive, effective, and reflective of the actual demands in the job market. For more detailed information, the Governing Talent Marketplaces Guide for States can be accessed at c-ben.org.

This initiative showcases C-BEN's ongoing dedication to revolutionizing and modernizing learning experiences while fostering considerable opportunities for workers and learners alike.