Chair Message

BY MARIE HOLLIDAY, CPA

In a previous column I challenged my peers to think outside the box and envision a Delaware business community developing business models that could change the lives of the next generation of young employees. I used Zip Code Wilmington as a prime example of a working model of success. This organization leverages innovative ideas and techniques to transform the working and learning experience of young people in computer programming. The program equips graduates with skills that lead to significantly higher starting salaries and positions them for success as more effective employees in the long run. Zip Code Wilmington’s success lies in its innovative approach, which stands apart from traditional learning methods.

This brings me to an exciting undertaking that has put Delaware at the forefront of the education and employment conundrum in which we find ourselves. How can we equip both children and educators with the resources they need to unlock each child’s full potential? No one child fits the same mold; nor should they. Not all children belong in a four-year post-high school baccalaureate program; nor should they. We must provide other alternatives.

Let us not forget the trades. Our community is sadly lacking in skilled tradespeople to help in construction and manufacturing. We must make these valuable professions more accessible and attractive for young people who have a natural affinity for them. I for one, have nothing but great admiration for anyone who can understand the intricacies of an electrical system, plumbing, or anything related to making a structure operate smoothly.

But how do we ensure that our students have sure footing in their abilities, training, and choices going forward? I am so excited that Delaware has become the standard bearer of the innovative Delaware Pathways Initiative. This is a concept that joins businesses and education in a collaborative effort to provide students with the most effective methods and tools to be successful. The Delaware State Chamber, amongst other industry partners, spearheaded the organization of the rebranded Navigating Delaware Pathways: An Education and Workforce Development Summit in April, which was hosted with the hope of increasing employer awareness of this initiative. Pathways programs create a talent pool of graduates with a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The numbers speak for themselves. Over 16,000 students are already enrolled in Pathways. Programs focused on career exploration are already in ten middle schools throughout the state. Additionally, more than 900 apprenticeship prospects are available for deserving students.

The Delaware Pathways Initiative is proving itself to be the gold standard in training programs and finding talent. In fact, a little feather in our collective caps is the following quote from Robert Schwartz, professor emeritus of the Harvard University Graduate School of Education: “No state builds pathways from high school to jobs as well as Delaware does.”

It’s an exciting time in our state, and I believe we as employers need to support this effort. Stay tuned. There is much to be learned.