Sessions of 2026 Connection Conference: Phil McBride
Dr. McBride, Phil
Vice President of Academics
Gila Community College
Sessions:
[5708] Methods to Strengthen Career Preparation for In-Demand Industries
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Loews Ventana Canyon
- Administration
- Community College
This session explores how cross-sector partnerships help students overcome key preparation gaps for high-demand industries. Strategy one focuses on embedding foundational literacy into CTE pathways, so students build reading, comprehension, and workplace documentation skills while advancing in technical training. Strategy two highlights intentional community and industry collaboration, including initiatives like the Business Partner Café, where community leaders and students discuss educational improvements. Drawing on national workforce and adult education models, the session shows how literacy partnerships unlock access to advanced technical competencies and industry credentials. Participants will see how contextualized instruction and embedded supports maintain student momentum instead of slowing it. Practical examples demonstrate how existing community resources can be leveraged rather than recreated. The session concludes with a replicable framework communities can use to strengthen CTE programs and improve college and career readiness.
