E41: Next Generation Workforce: Reimagining Youth Programs

In this first episode of a series recorded live at the 2024 NAWDP Youth Symposium, host Jonathan Overall sits down with Laurie Larrea, senior advisor with the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). Drawing from her impressive 46-year career in workforce development, Larrea shares insights about the Next Level Collaborative's technical assistance initiatives and reflects on the evolution of youth workforce programs. She discusses critical challenges in youth recruitment, the importance of early intervention for 14-15 year olds, and the changing landscape of workforce development in Texas and nationally. The conversation explores emerging trends like skills-based hiring, mobile career services, and the need for improved assessment tools. Laurie emphasizes the importance of restoring hope in young adults and advocates for increased funding and holistic approaches to youth workforce development, particularly for early teens.