Welcome to the Capstone Conversation, your go-to source for all the latest happenings in the Greater East Bay. In this edition, we're thrilled to introduce you to Bay Area LEEDS, an organization making waves in the community by fostering technological learning and career readiness among students. Our host, Jared Asch, had the opportunity to sit down with April Treece from Bay Area LEEDS to discuss their remarkable work.
April Treece explains that Bay Area LEEDS stands for 'Linking Education and Economic Development Strategies.' The organization aims to address workforce shortages by developing long-term talent solutions in collaboration with educators and employers. It focuses on engaging high school STEM educators and connecting them with employers with high-demand roles in the biotech, engineering, manufacturing, and environmental sectors.
April emphasizes the pivotal role of teachers in this model. Since students often can't aspire to roles they aren't exposed to, Bay Area LEEDS strongly focuses on involving industry professionals in the educational process. This includes everything from guest lectures and facility tours to curriculum development that aligns with industry needs.
In discussing pathways beyond high school, April underscores that there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Bay Area LEEDS collaborates closely with community colleges and universities to provide students with various next-step strategies, whether heading straight into the workforce, earning a certificate, or pursuing a four-year degree.
Jared raises the issue of skilled labor shortages, particularly in light of large projects like California Forever and the naval weapons station redevelopment. April acknowledges these concerns but reassures that initiatives like Bay Area LEEDS are designed to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers. Thanks to partnerships with the building trades and the apprenticeships they offer, young people can find rewarding careers in various construction and manufacturing fields.
April provides a breakdown of what constitutes a middle-skill job, highlighting that even a six-month certificate from a community college can lead to jobs paying around $60,000 per year. These roles often act as stepping stones into higher-paying positions, especially in high-demand sectors like healthcare, engineering, and biotech.
One of the standout initiatives discussed is the focus on encouraging young women to enter STEM fields. Through programs sponsored by Chevron and Contra Costa Transportation Authority, Bay Area LEEDS offers a variety of opportunities for young girls to engage with female professionals in STEM. These initiatives are not only one-off events but are sustained throughout the school year and into summer, providing continuous mentorship and hands-on experience.
Bay Area LEEDS has created a robust network of partnerships with long-standing organizations such as Bio-Rad Laboratories, Chevron, and the Contra Costa Transportation Authority. These collaborations ensure that students have access to industry-standard equipment and real-world learning opportunities, thus preparing them for future careers.
Before wrapping up, Jared asks April to share her journey. April spent 25 years at AT&T, focusing on community engagement. Her passion for education led her to start a nonprofit in the Tri-Valley area and, later, Bay Area LEEDS. April's commitment to education and workforce development is evident in her tireless efforts to connect students, teachers, and employers.
April leaves us with a final thought on the importance of career pathways in high schools. With rigorous, relevant curricula backed by industry partnerships, students are more prepared than ever to step into rewarding careers. The transformative power of continuous engagement between educators and employers forms the cornerstone of Bay Area LEEDS, paving the way for a brighter future for students in the East Bay.
Thank you to April Treece for sharing her insights and to all the organizations that make this work possible. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, visit Bay Area LEEDS' website and remember how you can contribute to building a more robust, diverse workforce in the East Bay.
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