In this Multimedia Case Study, learn how colleges, like Zane State College in rural Ohio, are working to prepare rural work forces for success. Explore the virtual forum, audio takeaways, and written case study to gain insight into building programs that support rural work forces.
Audio Summary
In this audio summary, Ian Wilhelm, a Chronicle deputy managing editor, asks questions about how Zane State College and Patrick & Henry Community College use partnerships with employers and local communities to support the growth of the rural work force.
The speakers are Marcie Moore, dean of business, engineering, and information technologies at Zane State College; Rhonda Hodges, vice president of workforce, economic and community development at Patrick & Henry Community College; and Julianne Dunn, senior program officer of work force and financial prosperity at Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation, who provides insight into the broader practical applications of work-force development programs at other rural institutions.
Moore describes how Intel’s plans to build a new chip factory in Ohio spurred her college to create two new certificate programs mid-year. Hodges explains her college’s focus on supporting small businesses by developing an entrepreneur training bootcamp in partnership with their local Chamber of Commerce. Dunn expands on how every community college is uniquely positioned to advocate for students and the local community when building partnerships with employers for work-force development.
More details about how Zane State and Patrick & Henry supported their local work-force efforts can be found in the recording of the virtual event and accompanying case study.
Building the Rural Work Force
How rural colleges meet the needs of nontraditional students
At Zane State College, a rural school in Ohio, 67 percent of students work while enrolled in classes.
At Patrick & Henry Community College in Virginia, students seek strategies to build and sustain their own businesses.
From workforce development initiatives to entrepreneurship boot camps, these two institutions have found creative ways to support their students and benefit the local economy.
Virtual Forum
The Different Voices of Student Success
The Chronicle’s resource center shares insights about improving student outcomes, social mobility, and the reskilling of workers in the higher-ed space.
