Adult & Continuing Education<\/a> (ACE) team recently brought together regional employers and community partners for a Workforce Advisory Session focused on one big question: How do we better prepare learners and employees for a rapidly changing workforce?<\/p>\nThe conversation revealed shared challenges across industries but also a strong sense of opportunity and collaboration.<\/p>\n
Employers spoke about the growing impact of technology and artificial intelligence on day-to-day work, while emphasizing the increased importance of human-centered skills like communication, adaptability, problem solving, and critical thinking.<\/p>\n
Many organizations are also navigating talent shortages, changing workforce expectations, and the need to support employee well-being in new ways.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/blogs.winona.edu\/academics\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2026\/06\/ACE-in-the-Community_Workforce-Advisory-Session-Rochester-feature.jpg” alt=”A group of industry leaders listen to a presentation on adult and continuing education.” title_text=”ACE-in-the-Community_Workforce-Advisory-Session-Rochester-feature” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
One theme came through clearly: learning opportunities need to be more flexible, practical, and responsive to real-world needs.<\/p>\n
Employers expressed strong interest in shorter, applied training options such as micro-credentials, stackable certificates, and customized professional development that allow employees to build skills while continuing to work.<\/p>\n
The discussion reinforced the value of stronger partnerships between higher education and industry.<\/p>\n
Through collaboration with Winona State, employers can help shape training and curriculum, connect with students through internships and applied projects, and explore opportunities to upskill current employees.<\/p>\n
These partnerships help ensure that learning remains relevant while strengthening regional talent pipelines.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Julie Kiehne” job_title=”Business Outreach Coordinator” company_name=”Winona State University” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
We know businesses are navigating constant change, and we want to be a responsive partner in that process.<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s helping organizations upskill employees, explore customized training, or connect with emerging talent, our goal at Winona State is to work alongside employers to build solutions that truly meet workforce needs.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Organizations interested in exploring work partnerships or professional development opportunities are encouraged to connect with Julie at jkiehne@winona.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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