
Session Description:
This “Conversation with Corps” will look to expand on the workforce plenary from #CorpsCon25 – The Corps Network’s 2025 National Conference. Marie Walker, COO of The Corps Network, will take a deeper look at career readiness, not just trainings and certifications – but with the help of the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation and their “Talent Pipeline Management” initiative, they will examine the critical role played by employers and the importance of collaboration. They will also look at the support systems, tools, and skills that young people need to access the job world and excel. Finding the right job can be a complex and challenging process. Lack of insider knowledge, resources, and connections can be stifling for Corpsmembers as they look to navigate the job market.
In this conversation, Marie will be joined by a representative from the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, who will share their decade plus work on “Talent Pipeline Management” This initiative was born out of a pressing need to address the growing skills gap in the US workforce. The US Chamber of Commerce Foundation recognized the critical role that employers play in shaping the workforce and have looked to position employers as the primary customers of education and training systems. They will share their thinking and show us ways that Corps can foster stronger partnerships with businesses to build a more competitive and dynamic workforce.
Marie will also be joined by Workforce Professionals Training Institute (WPTI). Workforce Professionals Training Institute looks to “support organizations that prepare jobseekers.” In this conversation they will talk about methodologies and tools when looking to improve job placement outcomes. They will discuss “bridging workforce and employer engagement by aligning job readiness with industry standards,” and “prepare workforce development for evolving industry and labor demands.
Attendees will leave this session feeling inspired about the power of the workforce to shape our future and excited about the possibilities available to our Corpsmembers. You will also walk away with actionable steps to better support Corpsmembers in their career exploration, broaden their horizons, and help them translate their skills into fulfilling jobs. Corpsmembers can play a critical role in shaping this future.
Materials / Resources:
- Recording
- Slides
- Links:
- Workforce Readiness and Reentry Program at Blackburn (Kentucky; Equine): A unique program is creating pathways to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals in Kentucky
- US Chamber of Commerce Foundation Employer Leadership
- TPM Workforce Development Training
- TPM History and Summary
- TPM FAQs
- WPTI Resources
- WPTI Events
- WPTI News
- WPTI E-Courses