Garrett Moran Takes Leadership Role as Year Up United's New Chairman of the Board
In a recent announcement, Year Up United, a prominent workforce development organization, has appointed Garrett Moran as its new Chairman of the Board. This leadership transition comes as the organization continues its mission to bridge the gap in career opportunities for young adults.
Moran, who brings a wealth of experience from various sectors, including public policy and private equity, is well-equipped to lead Year Up United in its effort to enhance economic opportunities for the youth. Before taking on this role, he was the Chair of Connecticut's Governor's Workforce Council and served on Year Up's National Board since 2022. Previously, he was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Blackstone's Private Equity Group, showcasing his extensive background within the corporate sector.
The urgent need for effective workforce development strategies has never been clearer, especially in the face of ongoing economic challenges. Year Up United primarily focuses on connecting young adults with meaningful career pathways while collaborating closely with employers to improve hiring practices. As Moran steps into this pivotal role, he is determined to further this agenda, ensuring that underrepresented youth are provided with the necessary support to enter and thrive in the workforce.
Ellen McClain, President and CEO of Year Up United, expressed enthusiasm about Moran's appointment: "His extensive background and commitment to workforce development will significantly impact our mission to close the Opportunity Divide. We look forward to his leadership as we seek to expand our initiatives to support young adults and connect them with employers ready to invest in talent."
Moran acknowledged his predecessor, Paul Edgerley, who has been instrumental in steering the organization through transformative phases over the past three years. Edgerley highlighted the critical necessity for a skills-first approach to hiring - a vision Moran fully supports. “I am thrilled to take on this new role and work collaboratively to enhance Year Up United's reach and influence,” Moran stated.
The recent appointment comes as Year Up United rebranded itself to reflect its broader mission and align more closely with its goals related to workforce equity. The organization's dedication to enhancing economic opportunity for young adults has been evident for nearly 25 years. By offering innovative talent solutions, they have established themselves as a leader in workforce development across the country.
In addition to his roles at Year Up United, Moran has served on numerous nonprofit boards, enhancing career opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including the board of trustees at Middlebury College and the Connecticut Council for Education Reform. His vast experience illustrates his commitment to integrated approaches that leverage public, private, and non-profit partnerships to effectively address the Opportunity Divide.
As he begins his tenure, Moran hopes to expand Year Up United's initiatives significantly. His leadership will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of workforce development and ensuring that they continue to serve as a catalyst for change. 2025 is set to be a crucial year, with a focus on fostering collaborations that can engender systemic change and facilitate access to better job opportunities for young adults across the nation.
Garrett Moran’s appointment not only signifies a new chapter for Year Up United but also signals an increased commitment to addressing the workforce challenges facing today’s youth. By bridging the gap between education and employment, Year Up United under Moran’s leadership aims to reshape the corporate landscape into one that is inclusive, equitable, and growth-oriented for all.
In conclusion, Moran’s extensive experience, passion for workforce development, and dedication to closing the Opportunity Divide position him to lead Year Up United effectively into a future focused on impactful change. As stakeholders look to the future of workforce development, Year Up United is hopeful that their efforts under Moran’s guidance will yield tangible outcomes that benefit both individuals and businesses alike.