Workforce Connect

03/26/2025

Missed the live webinar—or want to watch it again?

Workforce Insights: Episode 2 is now available on-demand!

Hosted by Marty Lessmann of Workforce Connect and featuring AdvanceNC’s workforce leaders Margaret Roberton and Erin Blakeley, this session dives into how partnerships and customized training programs are solving workforce challenges in North Carolina’s advanced manufacturing sector.

What You'll Learn:
• 20+ partner workforce consortium
• Real success stories from NC’s manufacturing workforce
• Strategies for closing the skills gap

Watch it now: https://hubs.la/Q03dvNfX0

In this session, Margaret Roberton and Erin Blakeley, workforce leaders at AdvanceNC, discuss how strategic partnerships and customized training programs are...

03/19/2025

Just a few days away! Workforce Insights Ep. 2 is happening Monday, March 24 at 1 PM MT | 3 PM ET.

Workforce challenges aren’t going away—but solutions like AdvanceNC’s collaborative approach to workforce partnerships are making a real impact.

Join us to hear how AdvanceNC built a 20+ partner workforce consortium that connects educators, employers, and workforce leaders to build a stronger, job-ready talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing.

📍 Secure your spot today! https://hubs.la/Q03cxMtB0

03/13/2025

A stronger workforce starts with better partnerships. How can workforce leaders, educators, and employers collaborate to close the skills gap in North Carolina?

Join us on March 24 at 1 PM MT | 3 PM ET for Workforce Insights Episode 2, where AdvanceNC’s workforce leaders will share how they built a 20+ partner workforce consortium to connect industry and education and develop a stronger talent pipeline for advanced manufacturing.

What you’ll learn:

• How AdvanceNC connects workforce training with employer needs
• How customized training programs prepare workers for high-demand careers
• The future of workforce development in North Carolina and how you can get involved

Featuring:

• Margaret Roberton – VP for Workforce Development at Central Carolina Community College
• Erin Blakeley – Executive Director of Workforce Special Programs, AdvanceNC
• Moderated by: Marty Lessmann, Founder & Chief Experience Officer of Workforce Connect

📍 Reserve your spot today! https://hubs.la/Q03bMSJh0

03/06/2025

Maximizing workforce partnerships shouldn't be this hard.

If you're still juggling spreadsheets, complex CRMs, and scattered communications, there’s a better way—and we’d love to share it with you.

Join us at Innovations 2025 to learn how Workforce Connect helps community colleges streamline partnerships, eliminate partner fatigue, and leverage real-time data for funding and growth.

📅 March 10 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Presidio C, Third Floor

👥 Speakers: Marty Lessmann, Co-Founder & Chief Experience Officer, Workforce Connect & Dr. Eric Dunker, Chief Growth Officer and Founding ED: National Center for the Apprenticeship Degree (NCAD)

Let's connect! https://hubs.la/Q039Kpmp0

02/28/2025

What’s the #1 thing missing in many workforce training programs?

Employer engagement. Without strong industry partnerships, training programs don’t align with real-world needs.

That’s why employer engagement is more important than ever. It bridges skills gaps, ensures training remains relevant, and strengthens the local economy.

How can workforce professionals build better employer relationships?

✔ Engage employers early—before a program is designed.
✔ Show clear ROI—highlight cost savings and hiring impact.
✔ Use technology—streamline collaboration and track outcomes.

We take a deeper dive into this topic in this month’s Workforce Minutes with Marty—check it out here: https://hubs.la/Q038QYFQ0

A thriving workforce doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through strong partnerships. Let’s make it happen.

The Key to Building a Workforce That Works

02/17/2025

Advance-NC is transforming North Carolina’s workforce!

As high-tech industries like semiconductors, EVs, and biotech grow, so does the need for skilled workers. AdvanceNC is bridging this gap by connecting employers, workforce boards, and community colleges to develop training programs that lead to real jobs.

The Results Speak for Themselves:
• 80%+ job placement for Wake Tech robotics grads
• Wolfspeed’s cleanroom tech program hiring 75% of graduates within 2 months
• Industry-backed training designed for real-world success

This is how workforce development should be done—collaborative, flexible, and built for the future.

Read the full case study: https://hubs.la/Q036_Gky0

Building North Carolina’s Skilled Workforce

02/10/2025

The future of workforce development is here!

In 2025, technology, community partnerships, and industry-driven training are shaping how we prepare people for high-demand careers. Institutions that stay ahead will drive real impact in their communities.

We’re breaking down the biggest trends and what leaders need to do to keep up and stay ahead. Check it out! 👇

🔗 Read more: https://hubs.la/Q035_Fh_0

12/20/2024

📢 Webinar Recap: Workforce Insights Roundtable – Episode 1

Missed the webinar or want to watch it again? The recording of our first roundtable is now live!

Join Dr. Eric Dunker and Marty Lessmann as they explore 5 Proven Apprenticeship Building Practices to help you design effective workforce programs.

What’s Available:
☑️ Webinar Recording
☑️ Slide Deck

Watch or revisit to gain actionable strategies that bridge the gap between education and workforce needs.

Access the resources here: https://hubs.la/Q030hhwg0

12/10/2024

🚨 Reminder: Workforce Insights Roundtable – One Week Away!

Don’t miss this chance to discover 5 proven practices for building impactful pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship, and apprenticeship degree programs.

📅 Webinar Details:
Date & Time: December 17th, 9:30 AM (MT)
Special Guest: Eric Dunker, Ph.D., Chief Growth Officer at NCAD

Why Attend?

✅ Gain actionable strategies for workforce success
✅ Connect with industry leaders and peers
✅ Learn how to bridge the gap between education and employment

Seats are filling quickly. Secure your spot now!

🔗 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/WC-Apprenticeships