Applications for the first cohort have now closed.
More information on the inaugural cohort coming soon!
ROI is pleased to announce the launch of a Career Coaching Fellowship for the Uplands region. Data shows that for many students, the traditional career preparation models are simply not enough, and guidance counselors everywhere have overwhelming caseloads. For every 100 seniors across the Uplands, only 25 will graduate from high school, enroll in a credential-granting program and successfully complete a credential within six years. This leaves approximately 2,900 every year without the credentials necessary to be competitive in the workforce (including a significant number of whom will also have accumulated debt). Additionally, more adults need upskilling or reskilling programs given the changing nature of work, demand for next level skills, and the implications of the pandemic.
According to ROI’s most recent Occupational Needs Assessment, the region’s key sector employers will add thousands of new jobs in the coming years. The majority of these jobs will require some form of post-secondary degree or credential. Under the current trajectory, the region will continue to lack the skilled talent and credentials to keep up with employer demand in the advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and defense sectors. A fact that could have significant long-term implications for growth and economic prosperity.
The need for meaningful career connections and articulated pathways is clear in order to increase postsecondary attainment which includes degrees, certificates, and credentials. Individuals entering the workforce and embarking upon a career must be aware of and be connected to the many options that lead to high opportunity and high wage jobs.
Goals
ROI’s Career Coaching Fellowship will strengthen the skills of individuals serving in a career coaching role throughout the 11 counties of the Indiana Uplands. The fellowship will grow leadership and expertise by providing fellows the opportunity to:
- participate in new learning through professional development,
- design and complete a regionally specific career-oriented project,
- be connected to regional and state-wide partners and resources, and
- be part of a regional career coaching network.
Ultimately, the goal is to activate a cohort of individuals across the region who will:
- provide direct support and career coaching to clients/students aligned with the opportunities available in the region,
- share research-based innovative practices with their organizations or schools, and
- see an increase in the number of students/adults pursuing and completing relevant pathways that lead to postsecondary opportunities for work or continued education.
The inaugural cohort of Career Coaching Fellows will be selected to participate in a 10-month fellowship from August 2021 through May 2022.
Fellows are expected to participate in all ROI professional development sessions and commit to being an active member of the Uplands network. Fellows will receive a $1,500.00 stipend upon completion of the Fellowship year, training, a subscription to 220 Leadership, and other relevant supporting resources and materials. If applicable, substitute teacher costs can be covered by ROI.
Who Should Apply
Individuals who have the capacity to support learners of any age in career exploration, career development and planning, and post-secondary attainment options are encouraged to apply. Examples include but are not limited to middle and high school counselors, life coaches, work-based learning coordinators, internship coordinators, postsecondary career coaches, and adult education providers. Applicants must be willing to serve in a leadership role within their organization and build relationships with employer and community partners.
Fellowship Timeline for 2021-2022
- Applications open Monday, April 19th
- Applications close 5pm Friday, May 7th
- Notification of selected Fellows by mid-May
- Fall 2021 through Spring 2022 – ongoing professional development convening monthly
Questions?
Contact: Emily Menkedick, Education Specialist
emily@regionalopportunityinc.org
