About the Episode
About the Episode: Workforce education has grown in popularity in recent years – initially propelled by the tightening of the job market, and then expanded by the pandemic, the need for companies to upskill, reskill, and incentivize their employees through educational opportunities has only become more urgent. Guild, a company founded in 2015 that is a leader in this space, builds programs to bridge the gap between education and employment, and partners with well-known corporations such as Walmart, Disney, and Hilton to support their employees’ education. In this episode I am joined by Mark Rudnick, vice president of learning partnerships at Guild, to talk about the future of workforce education.
Key Takeaways
- Rise of Non-Degree Credentials: Employers and employees increasingly prefer short-term, skill-based credentials over traditional degrees, driven by demand for flexibility and immediate ROI.
- Tailored Workforce Education: Guild curates learning marketplaces customized to industries and companies, addressing diverse needs from healthcare to retail.
- Accessibility and Inclusivity: Online education is broadening access for historically underserved populations, including frontline workers and non-traditional learners.
- AI and Durable Skills: Programs now emphasize durable skills like communication and teamwork while preparing workers to use AI effectively across all organizational levels.
Episode Summary
The Future of Workforce Education
Guild is at the forefront of workforce education, helping organizations design employee education programs that align with corporate goals while fostering individual growth. Mark Rudnick explains that a key trend is the growing preference for non-degree credentials, such as short-term certifications and boot camps, which offer immediate practical benefits. Guild has curated a learning marketplace of over 2,000 programs, partnering with 70+ institutions to provide high-quality education tailored to the needs of working adults.
AI and the Shift in Skill Development
As artificial intelligence becomes more pervasive, Guild is helping companies navigate its implications for workforce education. Recognizing that different roles require distinct AI competencies, Guild works with learning partners to develop targeted programs for frontline workers, managers, and executives. Additionally, Guild focuses on durable skills like teamwork and communication, which remain critical in an AI-driven workplace.
Expanding Access to Education
Guild’s mission centers on inclusivity, aiming to provide access to education for underserved populations. Online education has been instrumental in reaching frontline workers who previously lacked educational opportunities. Guild partners with employers like Tyson Foods and Walmart to offer programs ranging from high school completion to bachelor’s degrees, enabling employees to upskill, reskill, and achieve career mobility.
Success Stories
- Sherry, Tyson Foods: Sherry overcame personal challenges, including dropping out of high school and a felony record, to earn her high school diploma through Guild. She is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree and advancing in her career.
- Carol, Walmart: Despite suffering two strokes during the pandemic, Carol graduated with a 4.0 GPA in business administration through Southern New Hampshire University. Her employer and Guild honored her achievement with a surprise graduation ceremony at her store.
About the Podcast: Embrace the future of higher education with Mastering the Next. Dr. Ray Lutzky takes you on a journey through the dynamic intersection of student recruitment and leading-edge technology, uncovering the next big trends in strategic enrollment management and the innovations that are transforming the academic landscape.
Whether it’s exploring AI-driven enrollment strategies, navigating the challenges of online learning platforms, or discussing the unique needs of non-traditional students, Mastering the Next is your go-to resource for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving world of higher ed.
Connect With Our Host:
Dr. Ray Lutzky
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lutzky/
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: Mastering the Next is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include The EduData Podcast and Generation AI.
Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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