Learn4Life offers dropout recovery program

Ask managers in almost every industry about their biggest challenges, and "finding and keeping skilled workers" will be at the top of their lists. This is especially true in manufacturing and technology.

Learn4Life, a network of nonprofit high school dropout recovery programs, believes job skills training needs to start in high school. "We work with students who have fallen so far behind in school that they're unlikely to graduate. We help them get a diploma for free and work with community partners to provide job skills," explained Miguel-Angel Soria, director of career technical education.

One example is a workforce development partnership with Vocademy Makerspace, where Learn4Life students learn skills in 3-D printing, robotics, welding, machining, and design, all while working toward their diploma. The students are enrolled in a robust career readiness program, where they explore pathways to their next phase of education, learn basic computing, and master soft skills like interviewing and resume preparation.

"We identify the job needs in each region and work with community colleges and local employers to develop curricula that give students a competitive edge for good-paying jobs that exist right in their own backyard,” Soria said.

Through its Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) exclusive partners, the learning centers can accept students up to 24 years old.