Q&A with Malik Brown

This conversation has been edited and condensed for length and clarity. 

What is your assessment of the current state of Pennsylvania's workforce development efforts?

In Pennsylvania, we are witnessing remarkable collaborations among colleges, universities, workforce development providers, community-based organizations, and employers. These efforts are propelling the Commonwealth forward. Pennsylvania boasts dynamic industries, including advanced manufacturing, education, financial services, healthcare, and biotechnology, to name a few. I believe it is crucial to acknowledge the unsung heroes quietly working in public service to uplift communities lacking the credentials and education needed for economic security. One area of focus should be strengthening the connections between postsecondary education, community organizations, and employers. This synergy can yield profound benefits, from improved public health to enhanced community safety and economic stability for families. We must also invest more in wraparound services to support workforce development. Nonprofits can take a consultative approach to help employers welcome nontraditional talent, from recruitment to performance management.

What are some of the ways you are trying to improve workforce development?

At Graduate Philadelphia, we serve as a catalyst and advocate for adult learners in the greater Philadelphia area, empowering them for mid-skilled opportunities through additional support and training. We bridge the gap between colleges and employers, offering integrated approaches that combine education and training. Our Career Integrated Learning Advising (CILA) framework focuses on individual and household needs, with a positive ripple effect on entire families. We also collaborate with higher education institutions to better serve adult learners, who are the backbone of the current and future workforce. By bringing together voices from various sectors, we advance postsecondary credentialing efforts, tackling poverty through a collective impact model known as the Talent Hub (Lumina Foundation designated Talent Hub).

What are the biggest priorities for local, state, and national politicians to improve workforce development?

Politicians must craft a comprehensive strategy that encompasses education, workforce development, health, human services, and economic development, recognizing their interdependencies. This approach should include investments in both proven models and innovative projects with scalability potential. Collective impact models are essential, and we need to find common ground across the political spectrum. Customizing macro-level workforce development strategies to local markets ensures they align with local realities. Moreover, maintaining a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion lens in decision-making and resource allocation is vital for equitable outcomes.

Are there any organizations you draw inspiration from for their efforts on workforce development?

We draw inspiration from organizations like CAEL and Civic Labs, which showcase collaborative partnerships and thought leadership in specific regions. Locally, we admire the work of the Community College of Philadelphia, Peirce College, P4Hub, One Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Apprentice Network, The Welcoming Center, and OIC for their impactful contributions to workforce development.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to people planning to enter the workforce for the first time? To people reentering the workforce after time away?

For those entering the workforce: Cultivate curiosity and view skills as your currency. Embrace digital acumen, including proficiency in emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Develop emotional intelligence (EQ), as it's crucial for frontline workers. Be a proactive problem-solver, comfortable with change, and align your passion and skills with purpose. For those reentering the workforce, conduct a comprehensive self-assessment and skills inventory. Leverage your existing skills and approach skill development and career opportunities from a strengths-based perspective. This will set you on a path to success in the evolving workforce landscape.

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