Unlocking Economic Independence with Upskilling and Reskilling
Upskilling and reskilling have the power to bridge skill gaps and connect workers of all ages to meaningful employment opportunities.
Ronald G.’s journey is a testament to this transformative potential. At 75, Ronald re-entered the workforce after over a decade away, during which he cared for his late wife. With limited savings and a determination to stay self-reliant, he embarked on a journey to reestablish himself. Today, he’s thriving in a full-time property maintenance position, earning a stable and predictable living wage and enjoying the camaraderie of his team.
Unlocking Potential Through Training and Employment
Learning to use digital tools was essential in securing his new job. By mastering online job search platforms and refining his CV, Ronald was able to access new opportunities. Reflecting on his experience, Ronald shared:
I was able to use the computer to look for jobs and submit my résumé. That’s where I found this job.
Digital skills not only help individuals perform well on the job but also equip them to secure “Good Jobs” as defined by the Department of Labor. Even though technology was a new frontier for Ronald after years away from employment, his dedication to learning demonstrated the power of skill development at any stage in life.
Ronald credits access to training and mentors for helping him navigate today’s digital job market. Reflecting on his experience, he shared: “I didn’t grow up with computers, and it was challenging at first. But I kept at it, and I learned. The process of learning gave me the confidence to believe I could still compete in today’s world.”
A Journey Built on Skill Development
Deborah Hawkins, Ronald’s Digital Navigator, highlighted his inspiring journey: “Working with Mr. Ron was a remarkable experience. His eagerness to embrace technology at the age of 75 and his determination to learn and excel in the digital realm is a powerful testament to the limitless possibilities of lifelong learning.”
Gaining digital skills transformed Ronald’s confidence, empowering him to negotiate his employment terms:
I want to be an asset, and these skills give me an advantage. And that’s the name of the game.
Looking forward, Ronald sees how these skills will help him grow in his career. He said: “In the meantime, I might move into supervision here, where I’ll need to use a computer. The skills I learned will help me with that.”
His story shows how workforce training programs do more than teach skills—they create opportunities, build confidence, and help older adults like Ronald unlock new possibilities.
Recognizing the Value of Older Workers
Ronald’s story highlights the untapped potential of older workers in our labor force. Their dedication, experience, and adaptability make them invaluable assets that are key to addressing the labor shortage that hinders growth in America.
For his current employer, hiring Ronald was not just about filling a vacancy—it was about welcoming a hardworking, resourceful team member with a fresh perspective. A person with his experience, knowledge and newfound digital skills is exactly what employers are looking for. These workers understand that age has no bearing on their ability to adapt, learn, and contribute to the evolving job market.
Upskilling and Reskilling
Ronald’s journey highlights how apprenticeship programs do more than teach technical skills—they build confidence, expand career opportunities, and help individuals reimagine their future. As comprehensive workforce development initiative designed for older adults, these programs provide meaningful work experience through community service roles at various non-profit and public agencies. Participants gain on-the-job experience while receiving targeted training to enhance their skills and improve their employment prospects.
Ultimately, this strategic intervention transforms their participation into a professional launching pad, enabling older workers to successfully re-enter the competitive job market through structured support and practical experience. This blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge equips participants with the competencies needed to excel in their chosen fields.
For Ronald, participating in the program was transformative. He gained 7 skills-tested certifications including in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Docs. In addition, he was assigned to participate in career pathway training at the New York State Dept. of Transportation where he assisted in the warehouse. This hands-on experience allowed him to apply his newly acquired skills in a real-world setting, further enhancing his understanding and capability. He added: Keeping your mind active is healthy — like a daily dip in the proverbial fountain of youth.
Upskilling and reskilling older workers are vital to building a modern, adaptable workforce. By equipping them with current, in-demand skills and fostering lifelong learning, we unlock the potential of this often-overlooked talent pool. These efforts not only enhance their employability but also enable employers to meet evolving talent demands, creating an intergenerational workforce that drives innovation and success.
This success story would not have been possible without our local training partner, Supportive Services Corporation in Buffalo, New York. Their top-notch training aligned with the needs of today’s employers opens doors to economic mobility and lasting financial security.