Wanda B.’s Journey
Wanda B.’s story is a powerful example of how older workers bring tremendous value to today’s workforce, especially when equipped with modern skills.
At 65, Wanda B. found herself seeking new career opportunities after her role ended due to downsizing. Wanda had a long tenure in home health care, where she managed complex scheduling, payroll, and staffing tasks. She was determined to continue working but faced the challenge of adapting to today’s digital workplace. Wanda also shared that she had experienced age bias in her job search, where younger hires were often prioritized despite her extensive experience. Wanda is not alone. Studies show that nearly 25% of the U.S. workforce will be over 55 by 2030, yet many face similar challenges of age bias and skill gaps when seeking employment. According to a recent TD World report, only 50% of workers over 55 have been offered job retraining in the past three years, compared to 85% of workers aged 18 to 34.
The Power of Upskilling
Wanda’s path changed when she connected with a workforce development program aimed at equipping older workers with essential modern skills. She enrolled in a digital skills training initiative and completed 11 skills-tested certifications, including two hands-on certificates in Office Administration and Customer Service. Wanda was especially excited about her new skills with Excel. “After learning Excel, I can bring next-level organization to my professional and personal endeavors,” she said proudly.
Wanda training translated directly into professional success when she was hired full-time as Administrative Assistant. In her new role, she leverages her digital skills to manage complex client data, support food distribution efforts, and engage with hundreds of community members across multiple counties. Reflecting on her transition, Wanda noted, “I don’t know that I could have done this job without the training program and the guidance I received. It gave me the confidence and skills I needed for this position.”
I don’t know that I could have done this job without the training program and the guidance I received. It gave me the confidence and skills I needed for this position.
Wanda’s story demonstrates the impact of investing in older workers through targeted upskilling. The gap between available labor and mismatched skills is largely because older workers often lack access to the digital and industry-specific training employers require. Her success highlights how providing modern skills training can empower experienced talent to meet current workforce demands, benefiting both the employee and the employer. By tapping into the potential of older workers, organizations can access a diverse, dedicated workforce equipped for today’s challenges.
This success story would not have been possible without our local training partner, United Way of Cape Fear in Wilmington, North Carolina. Their top-notch training aligned with the needs of today’s employers opens doors to economic mobility and lasting financial security.