Robin G.’s Journey to Self-Sufficiency
As the world of work continues to change at a rapid pace, Robin G.’s story stands out as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of upskilling and reskilling. After facing personal hardships and professional setbacks, Robin’s journey from uncertainty to empowerment is both inspiring and relatable.
A New Chapter Begins
Robin’s career began in the health department and various clinics, where she was accustomed to a structured environment with familiar tasks. However, life took a turn when she had to care for her ailing mother. “I had been working in the mental health field, but my mom got sick, and I had to start taking care of her,” Robin recalls. After her mother’s passing, she faced the additional challenge of caring for her father, which limited her ability to work full-time. As Robin sought employment, she encountered a daunting reality: the job market had evolved significantly. “When I started looking for work again, I had no knowledge of Excel or PowerPoint—the things that employers were looking for,” she explains. This gap in skills left her feeling unqualified and anxious about her prospects.
The Struggle of Job Searching
The challenges intensified as Robin navigated the complexities of job applications. “Older adults seeking employment often face significant obstacles due to biases that can influence hiring decisions,” she notes. Compounded by age-related biases and the pressure of competing against younger candidates, Robin’s search for meaningful work became increasingly frustrating. “I took some Microsoft classes but learned nothing,” she shares. This lack of effective training only added to her feelings of inadequacy. “I was able to turn on a computer and scroll through the internet, but that was it.”
A Turning Point: Gaining New Skills
Everything changed when Robin enrolled in the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). Within SCSEP, Robin enrolled in the Digital Certification Program (DCP), which provided her with one-on-one support from a Digital Navigator, helping her build confidence in her abilities. “She would make me think and say, ‘Oh, I’ve known this all along,’” Robin reflects. This personalized approach allowed her to overcome her fears and gain essential skills.” I got a 100% in Excel!” she exclaims with pride. The program not only equipped her with technical knowledge but also instilled a sense of empowerment. “I felt more powerful because I knew something now,” she says. “I can stand up against younger candidates without panicking.” Robin gained 15 skills-tested certifications and a skills-tested Career Pathway Practicum Certification in Office Administration.
Her Digital Navigator, Lydia Wren, added, “When Robin began DCP, she was already professional, and hard working. Like so many of our job seekers, she needed an opportunity to update her skills and gain confidence in the digital workforce. I’m thrilled that DCP provided a step on her path to a job where she can shine and is appreciated. She deserves it!”
Securing Employment & Economic Stability
After completing the program, Robin secured a position as an Administrative Assistant to the Assistant Director at a nonprofit community center. “I never thought I would get hired at such a high salary a year,” she admits, surprised at the salary offer. This job has been transformative for Robin, allowing her to regain stability in her life. “I can pay my bills on time now,” she shares. “I was able to bring my dad back to New York and have him stable in a nursing home.” The sense of purpose that comes from helping others in her new role has been equally fulfilling. “We help clients with rent assistance and medical insurance—it’s rewarding work.”
I never thought I would get hired at such a high salary a year. I can pay my bills on time now. I was able to bring my dad back to New York and have him stable in a nursing home.
A Skilled Workforce for the Modern Era
Robin’s journey underscores the critical need for a workforce equipped with skills tailored to today’s digital landscape. As businesses evolve, so do the requirements for employers creating a gap that many older adults struggle to bridge. “There are so many people out there who feel hopeless because they don’t have the skills or know where to go,” Robin observes, highlighting a common challenge faced by mature job seekers.
However, her story demonstrates that with proper training and support, this untapped talent pool can become a valuable asset to employers. By investing in digital literacy and modern workplace skills, older adults can confidently fill open positions, contributing their wealth of experience to the workforce, where they will soon account for 25% of all workers. “You have to believe that you can do it,” Robin advises, emphasizing the transformative power of skill development.
Robin’s transition from feeling uncertain to becoming a highly-skilled professional showcases the potential for creating a truly age-inclusive workforce. Her success story serves as a testament to the fact that when given the opportunity to upskill, older workers can adapt, thrive, and significantly contribute to the modern workplace. This not only benefits individuals by restoring their confidence and purpose but also helps organizations tap into a diverse talent pool, fostering innovation and bridging generational gaps in the workforce.
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At the Center for Workforce Inclusion, we’re committed to preparing workers with the modern skills and training that employers need. Through tailored workforce development programs, we empower individuals with the tools they need to find good jobs and achieve financial stability. This #GivingTuesday, consider supporting our efforts to bridge talent gaps and create a more robust economy for workers of all ages.