It isn't your father's school any more. Schools can address the supply side of the equation by introducing math and science to their vocational curriculum in a more sophisticated way, he said. On the demand side, employers must identify what their requirements are and establish partnerships that close the loop from classroom to workplace. Earlier this month, the board announced a new initiative to develop and market a comprehensive list of education and training providers that employers can access for both their soft and technical requirements. The initiative also aims to promote collaborative training programs among employers.
Vocational schools represent an available training ground.
David Robin, director of vocational and technical education for the Pittsfield school system, said he oversees 18 programs, each of which has a technical advisory committee that provides direction on anticipated skills and equipment requirements in their respective fields. All of our programs reflect technological requirements. The challenge is to bring employers and vocational schools into closer alignment, using models such as Tech Path to funnel trained students into the hungry workplace. The meeting at General Dynamics broke the ice and was well attended. Meeting participants said they made a good first step in an effort that will be continued.