PCC takes a novel approach to engage more people in education, upskill Oregon’s workforce and help employers fill jobs.
By Shelly Strom, PBJ Contributing Writer
Portland and the state as a whole are grappling with two major threats to Oregon’s economic vitality: A workforce shortage and a growing number of households in poverty.
Leaders at Portland Community College are striving to respond to both issues with a strategy of helping students access state grant dollars for transportation, housing, tools and equipment, child care and other necessities. The initiative, known as Pathways to Opportunity, extends to all Oregon community colleges.
A key component of Pathways to Opportunity is outreach by PCC “success coaches” to people who are unemployed, underemployed or in low-wage jobs. The coaches help potential students (as well as current ones) through the process of applying for federal SNAP food assistance and pursuing all the financial benefits available to them as a student. The coaches also counsel participants on viable career paths and education tracks needed to become competitive job candidates.
This innovative approach is what is needed for a thriving economy, according to some business owners.
Josh Suter, who runs the metal fabrication shop H.W. Metals in Tualatin, traveled to the state Capitol multiple times to speak in support of PTO. Legislators later voted unanimously to pass a bill that directed colleges to collaborate as they finalized their work on PTO. Read more.
