Author: Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker, Literacy Texas Executive Director
Many adult learners enroll in our programs because they want stable employment, career growth, and skills that lead to real opportunity.
As we approach career navigation with our students, it’s important that we spend some time learning about local workforce needs. When we don’t work directly with employers in our community, we don’t fully understand exactly how to support our career-seeking learners.
Adult learning programs can’t operate in isolation and still expect strong workforce outcomes. If we want our workforce preparation programs to thrive, we must build real relationships with local employers.
Local employers offer insight into the local job market. They understand which skills are difficult to find, which credentials matter, and how job roles are changing.
When adult learning programs listen closely to employers, curriculum becomes more relevant and training pathways become clearer. Learners benefit because they can see a direct connection between what they’re learning and where it can take them.
I’ve seen the impact of these partnerships many times. Programs that collaborate with employers align instruction with workplace expectations and create smoother transitions into employment.
Employer engagement can lead to work-based learning opportunities, classroom presentations, interview practice, and hiring pipelines that support both learners and businesses.
These relationships allow employers to see adult learners as motivated and capable contributors. Learners gain confidence in knowing their efforts are aligned with real opportunities in their region.
Building employer relationships takes time and intention. It means showing up to community meetings, inviting employers into our learning centers, and being open to feedback. This isn’t always easy, but it’s essential to creating networks that work.
Get Texas literacy updates
Join our mailing list so you don’t miss any news:
- Local and national literacy news
- Conference updates
- Regional symposia
- Best of Texas
- Advocacy
- …more!
