Empowering Community College Students for Future Careers
Introduction to OMD Works Initiative
One Million Degrees (OMD) is proud to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at community college students, focusing on connecting them with opportunities in high-growth industries such as legal, finance, and IT. This program, OMD Works, is set to transform the landscape for students, providing essential support and resources that can lead to rewarding career paths.
The Importance of Real-World Experience
In today's competitive job market, having real-world experience is crucial for success. OMD recognizes that students need more than just classroom knowledge; they require practical experience to effectively utilize their education. Dr. Rita Raichoudhuri, the chief program officer at One Million Degrees, emphasizes the necessity of providing students with opportunities that allow them to gain real-world experience, ultimately preparing them for high-demand careers that can lead to upward mobility.
Understanding the Challenges
A recent study highlighted that many community college students, despite having chosen a career path, feel unequipped with information about their earning potential and the available in-demand jobs in their areas. This gap often leads to missed opportunities, making it vital for organizations like OMD to step in and bridge this divide.
Addressing Barriers to Success
The OMD Works initiative is designed to remove barriers that hinder community college students from gaining meaningful work experiences. By offering a holistic support system, the program aims to facilitate successful transitions from education to careers. Over the course of three phases, 100 students will be selected for this pilot program, where they will receive hands-on training and internship opportunities.
Employer Partnerships: A Key Component
To ensure the effectiveness of the OMD Works initiative, One Million Degrees has partnered with several prestigious employers committed to enhancing career opportunities for community college students. Organizations such as Relativity, Morningstar, Wintrust, CDW, and CCCIS are joining forces to provide mentorship, internships, and professional development, creating pathways to high-quality jobs.
Real Opportunities at Major Companies
Relative to the changing job market, these employers offer students direct access to career-enhancing experiences. For instance, Relativity provides exposure in data analytics and cybersecurity, while Morningstar and CDW offer insights into financial services and tech solutions respectively. This collaborative approach enables students to navigate the complexities of today’s workforce.
Building a Supportive Community
The OMD Works launch builds on existing partnerships with City Colleges, where students receive personalized guidance and resources that help them tackle challenges in their educational journey. OMD ensures students receive trained mentorship, actionable career coaching, and wraparound services that facilitate not just academic success but holistic personal growth.
The Impact of OMD Works
According to Sean Neilsen, Manager of Talent Pathways Programming at Relativity, investing in emerging talent is crucial for community strengthening. OMD Works not only helps students forge their career paths but also helps employers establish connections with eager and qualified candidates. This reciprocal relationship fosters a vibrant ecosystem where both students and businesses thrive.
Generous Support and Partnership Opportunities
The success of the OMD Works initiative is bolstered through the support of donors such as Enova, which has shown a commitment to fostering education and career readiness. Employers interested in contributing can select from various partnership roles, whether it be hosting interns or providing mentorship. OMD encourages organizations to leverage their resources and engage with talent ready for the workforce.
About One Million Degrees
One Million Degrees is on a mission to enhance the career prospects of community college students by providing holistic support designed to empower their academic and personal growth. Currently, OMD supports over 2000 scholars across City Colleges, with plans to expand that reach to over 3000 students. The organization not only fosters educational initiatives but also collaborates with various industries to create accessible pathways for students into rewarding and stable employment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the OMD Works initiative?
OMD Works is a program designed to connect community college students with internships and job opportunities in high-growth industries via employer partnerships.
How does OMD support students?
OMD provides holistic support, including personalized tutoring, coaching, internships, and mentorship to help students thrive in their academic and career paths.
Who are the partners involved in OMD Works?
Major partners include Relativity, Morningstar, Wintrust, CDW, and CCCIS, all of whom provide internships and career guidance.
What are the benefits of paid internships?
Paid internships provide students with essential work experience, enhancing their resumes and improving their chances of future employment.
How can employers participate in OMD Works?
Employers can participate by hosting internships, providing professional mentors, or contributing to industry-specific training programs.
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