Wilson Career Pathways Project

By Latoya Wilson, MPA

Recently, we heard the news about a midwife by the name of Dr. Janell Green Smith who passed away due to complications of giving birth to her first child. Her inspiration of earning a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, certifying as a midwife, and serving as an advocate for Black Maternal health is because “Black maternal mortality is 4x higher and is a public health crisis” (National Library of Medicine). Obviously, it remains important to encourage the next generation interested in science and medicine to pursue academic paths if they wish to contribute to addressing the unique needs of Black Health.

Based on qualifications, science and medical professionals are likely required to complete Bachelor’s level or higher education so they can earn the credentials to enter these fields. First, students with the potential and inspiration to be another Dr. Green must be encouraged to enroll in advanced curriculum, such as STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). Additionally, students must be willing to spend many more years beyond the bachelor’s level in graduate programs to strengthen their research and practicum skills. In other words, without an academia track, fields, much like the medical field, would have less access to talented, qualified workers to address the inequity of the healthcare system.

Now, does that mean I’m advocating for academic programs only? NO! This blog aims to support the concept of offering varied educational pathways to future generations as well as people making career transitions. Why? Because both tracks — Trade and Academia — are essential in economic development practices, leading to the generation of sustainable, healthier, and wealthier communities. As a consultant who integrates innovative economic development projects into career pathway programs for the next generation, I argue that society should value trade equally with academia to sustain communities. Let’s first examine green industries. Installers of solar panels may only require a High School Diploma, while Engineers that design solar panels may require at least a four-year degree.

Focusing on trade may deprive municipalities of educated professionals who perform knowledge-based tasks, while prioritizing academia could result in a shortage of skilled workers who typically perform hands-on operations. Both professionals have capabilities of using innovations which contribute to complex projects solving community issues, such as expanding green infrastructure for climate change. Unfortunately, the United States (US) has issues with high tuition costs and student loans — another conversation for the future. It’s essential for policymakers to advocate strategic investments in the next generation and transitional workforce, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede their ability to contribute to long-term sustainability at both national and global levels.

Why Diverse Educational Pipelines Matter in Economic Development

Professionals from trade and academia both offer skills that will foster innovation and meet evolving economic needs of communities. Each component brings unique partnerships that allow communities to compete in the global market. As stated earlier, Dr. Janell Green Smith’s medical qualifications, her advocacy, and unfortunately, her timely passing highlight the urgent need for representation in managing and saving Black women’s lives. Therefore, the ONLY education track is to attain academic training, research, and practicum skills. Without this type of training, Black women will continue to face this and other type of health crises that continue to plague the US and globally. Alternatively, professionals such as radiologists earn credentials from trade schools that collaborate with experts like Dr. Green, to address this emergency. Radiologists use medical imaging devices to help physicians make informed, life-saving decisions.

Promoting Diverse Education Pathways in Community Development

A Geothermal Engineer would be a perfect example of a green professional that requires at least a Bachelor’s degree to perform their tasks. According to CareerExplorer, the Geothermal Engineer role requires professionals “to design, construction, and maintain geothermal power plants, which extract heat from the Earth’s subsurface and convert it into usable energy”. In other words, these professionals must obtain higher level credentials to design a system that will drill thousands of feet below the earth to install underground pipes. This strategy is an energy efficient way of allowing these pipes to utilize the Earth’s stable temperature that provide heating and cooling systems for commercial and residential properties. These professionals must possess drilling and installation skills that will effectively serve clients without triggering natural disasters, such as earthquakes.

A Geothermal Technician, on the other hand, is considered a trade that allows professionals to enter the field with at least a High School diploma. These professionals install, maintain, and repair systems designed by Engineers (CareerExplorer). Even though technicians may not need to enroll in Higher Education, they still must obtain some type of certification and the skills to actually drill and install systems without triggering natural disasters, such as an earthquake.

Looking Ahead: Investing in both Tracks for Future Leaders to Building a Stronger Future

When professionals from both trade and academic pathways collaborate, communities gain the benefits of a comprehensive strategy for economic development projects. Recognizing the value of both tradespeople and academic professionals empowers the next generation to explore careers that align with their interests and strengths. Thus, building a workforce equipped to address emerging challenges in all areas of advanced fields, such as green infrastructure and healthcare. It’s essential that policymakers, educators, and employers invest in, and promote both tracks as a long-term goal to produce sustainable communities.

To ensure lasting sustainability, we must shift our perspective on supporting trade and academic pathways. Both tracks are equally important and should be valued without discouragement. While the academic route may entail more expenses and potential student debt, increasing access to financial aid and student loan forgiveness is crucial for recruiting talent that can drive innovation. Conversely, students whose strengths lie in skilled trades should not be pressured into college courses. Careers in trade offer substantial rewards and unique expertise, often at lower cost. Still, advocacy for financial assistance remains necessary since trade education is not free. Finally, both educational pathways require continuous professional development to remain aligned with advancements in their fields.

Both tracks should be considered partnerships rather than competition.