Empowering Tomorrow: Upskilling and Reskilling in the Age of AI

In this two-part special series of the Acuity + Acumen Podcast, host Deanna sits down with Benjamin Magill and Christopher Edwards, leaders in workforce development and education, to discuss empowering tomorrow's workforce in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). This insightful conversation dives deep into the future of workforce development, focusing on upskilling and reskilling in high-demand sectors like biotechnology.

 

Benjamin Magill is an Associate Vice Chancellor at Dallas College, and Christopher Edwards is an Assistant Director of the EDA Biotech Grant. Ben is the visionary behind the $8.76 million Good Jobs Grant, transforming the biotech workforce in North Texas, while Chris is driving equitable access through strategic partnerships like Panthera BioSolutions and Collin College.

 

In Part 1 (airing December 4th), we explore how community colleges, businesses, and community organizations are collaborating to bridge the skills gap and create meaningful opportunities in emerging industries. Ben and Chris share their expertise on effective leadership, the evolving role of community colleges, and the importance of hands-on, skills-based training.

 

In Part 2 (airing December 11th), we focus on the $8.7 million Good Jobs Grant awarded to Dallas College to grow the biotech workforce in North Texas. Ben and Chris explain how their project is shaping the future of the region's biotechnology sector, through strategic partnerships with employers, academia, and nonprofits such as the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.

 

Tune in for these powerful episodes of Acuity + Acumen, where we illuminate leadership, inspire change, and explore the ways that education and industry can come together to create a better future.