DisruptED in the D: Moonlaunch moment in Education with Dr. Sasha and Dr. Caesar

 

Job markets have seen quite a number of changes as technological advancements reshape industries at fast paces. Yet, a significant portion of the workforce remains trapped in low-skill positions with little opportunity for upward mobility. But in a city like Detroit, there is a challenge of upskilling workers that is being compounded by systemic barriers in education and workforce development. With automation and digital transformation accelerating, how can underserved and vulnerable populations be equipped with the skills to succeed in this new economy?

On the latest segment of “DisruptED,” host by Ron J. Stefanski sat down with two education and workforce development leaders, Dr. Caesar Mickens Jr. and Dr. Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich. The three of them looked at the pressing issue of how to build an inclusive employment pipeline that not only provides access and education, but also ensures retention and advancement for marginalized communities.

Some of the topics the trio further discussed included:

  • Strategies to prepare high school students and adults for high-demand careers in technology and innovation.
  • How businesses can take a proactive approach to upskilling employees, offering certificates and degrees to ensure long-term career growth.
  • Addressing educational inequities and creating scalable models for workforce training in underserved communities.

Dr. Caesar Mickens Jr. is an expert in instructional design and technology, Dr. Mickens has worked extensively in education leadership and workforce development, advocating for innovative solutions to close the employment gap.

Dr. Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich is a leader in higher education and workforce training, Dr. Thackaberry-Voinovich has spearheaded initiatives to expand access to career-focused learning, particularly for non-traditional and underrepresented students.

Article by Alexandra Simon.

Recent Episodes

In a workforce reshaped by automation, accelerated AI adoption, and persistent labor shortages, the demand for skilled tech talent has never been more urgent—or more difficult to meet. The traditional pipelines, namely college degrees and four-year institutions, are no longer producing enough candidates to meet the explosive growth in tech roles. With tech jobs…

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies. In this episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, host Dr. Amy Grosso talks with TJ Markland, General Manager of Payments at Raptor Technologies, to discuss the often-overlooked safety challenges of school events—from daytime assemblies to Friday night football. As schools work to balance hospitality…

The labor market is evolving quickly and traditional higher education faces increasing pressure to demonstrate real-world value. According to Strada Education Network, just 63 percent of college graduates feel their education was worth the cost. With shifting learner expectations and growing employer demand for work-ready skills, universities and employers are confronting a critical question:…