Recently, I had the privilege of hearing Dr. Calvin Mackie, founder of STEM NOLA, speak. His message resonated deeply with me, igniting a sense of excitement and inspiration. Dr. Mackie’s insights hold valuable lessons for organizations like Goodwill, deeply invested in uplifting traditionally underserved communities and empowering individuals towards success.
He made three points that really stood out to me:
- We must give participants the right SKILLS: “the people we train have to know the why, not just the how.”
- We must give people we serve the right ASSETS: “people that support you, people that say yes, when everyone else is saying no.”
- We must make sure our graduates have the right MINDSET: “leaving people saying ‘I can do this!'”
Dr. Mackie emphasized the importance of equipping individuals with the RIGHT SKILLS – not just the technical know-how, but the understanding of why these skills matter in today’s rapidly evolving world. It’s about providing participants with the tools to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven landscape.
Moreover, he highlighted the significance of offering the RIGHT ASSETS – a supportive network of individuals who believe in their potential and offer encouragement even when faced with adversity. Having a strong support system can make all the difference in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.
But perhaps most crucially, Dr. Mackie underscored the importance of cultivating the RIGHT MINDSET – one that fosters confidence and determination. Instilling a belief in oneself is essential for individuals to pursue their goals with unwavering determination.
To Dr. Mackie’s powerful insights, I would add two more essential ingredients for success: HOPE and RESILIENCE. Holding onto hope, even in the face of challenges, is essential. “This thing we call HOPE is real and you must hold on to it tightly. If you lose HOPE you lose it all,” he said.
Resilience – a trait already inherent in the individuals we serve – must be nurtured and supported.
So, how do we nurture hope and resilience?
By surrounding individuals with a community of believers – people who offer encouragement, support, and a helping hand when needed. Building a structure of sustained support, not just for a class or a short period, but for years to come, is crucial. Real, lasting change takes time.
Our job isn’t to get to the diploma at the end of class. Yes, that’s a proud moment for many… but nothing more than a piece of paper if there isn’t a job and a career. Our focus must be on providing ongoing support and guidance, long after the diploma is earned.
As workforce training providers, our mission is clear: to help individuals accumulate the RIGHT SKILLS, the RIGHT ASSETS, and the RIGHT MINDSET, fueled by hope and resilience. By tapping into the innate resilience of those we serve and offering unwavering support, we can empower individuals to reach their full potential and achieve lasting success.