2018 Highlights and Partnerships for the New Year

Dear colleagues:

As another year draws to a close, we delight in the opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, the partnerships that helped make them possible, and announce exciting new ventures on the horizon.

As a result of joint research between Workcred and the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), manufacturers now have a better understanding of the labor market challenges and opportunities that credentialing can offer. Workcred released a national research report this year examining credential use in this sector and how credentialing can be improved to help manufacturers keep up with rapidly evolving skill needs. Last week, with the goal of moving the report’s recommendations from idea to reality, Workcred and MEP convened credentialing and training organizations to identify partnerships and strategies to implement the recommendations. And because research in this area is seen as so vital, we are already working with NIST MEP and manufacturers to identify where Workcred can conduct additional research to improve understanding of the role credentials can play in supporting the continued growth of this sector.

Thanks to a new grant from Lumina Foundation, Workcred is thrilled to begin a new partnership with the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) and the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) to explore how students can earn both degrees and certifications as part of their four-year degree program. The goal is to identify practical examples and new opportunities to connect degrees and certifications that result in credential pathways, thereby creating more opportunities for students to earn credentials with labor-market value. We are also pleased to begin working with the Markle Foundation’s Skillful Initiative to support Skillful’s Governor's Coaching Corps in Colorado. The program recognizes the role of career coaches in bridging the gap between jobseekers and employers, and supporting economic growth.

In an initiative aimed at reducing hospital-acquired infections, we are working with the ASSE International chapter of IAPMO to promote within the health care community a certification for infectious control professionals and related personnel. And Workcred could not be prouder to continue our important work with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) and Jobs for the Future (JFF) under a U.S. Department of Labor grant to help young adults recently released from incarceration to gain skills, quality credentials, and work experience needed for a successful transition.

Workcred is grateful for all of you – our partners and colleagues who share our commitment to advancing quality credentials and building a more integrated and effective credentialing system for all.

We look forward to continuing this important work with you in 2019 and beyond.

Best regards,

Roy A. Swift