How can work-based learning shape the future of education and careers? Tim Aldinger, Vice President of Workforce and Climate Innovation at Foundation for California Community Colleges (FoundationCCC), explores how combining real-world experience with classroom learning boosts talent development, retention, and industry collaboration. Initiatives like the Work-Based Learning Planning Pilot demonstrate that education and industry can work together effectively. Community colleges play a key role in creating accessible, affordable pathways, especially in emerging fields like climate resilience. By offering solutions like credit for prior learning and stackable credentials, they ensure more equitable workforce opportunities for underserved communities.
You’ll learn:
How work-based learning benefits students.
Key ways for creating equitable workforce pathways.
How industry partnerships can create thriving work-based learning programs.
The role of community colleges in workforce preparation.
Why reflective learning is important in professional development.
About the Guest:
Tim has spent two decades championing work-based learning, leveraging his firsthand experience to enhance programs for diverse learners across California. He has worked locally and nationally in the public workforce system, co-founded the California Workforce Association’s Executive Bootcamp, and dedicated the last ten years to supporting California community colleges. Before joining FoundationCCC in 2013, Tim served as the Manager of Training and Special Projects for the National Association of Workforce Boards, offering strategic planning and consultation. His career began as a Youth Program Officer at the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board in Pittsburgh, PA, after his first job detasseling corn in southeastern Wisconsin.
Engage with us:
LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook: @PasadenaCityCollegeEWD
Join our newsletter for more on this topic: ewdpulse.com
Visit: PCC EWD website
More from Tim Aldinger & Foundation for California Community Colleges
Website: https://foundationccc.org/
LinkedIn:@tim-aldinger
Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn: @foundationccc
Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: scummo@pasadena.edu
Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking
Find the transcript of this episode here
Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we’d love to hear from you!
