Closing the gap between education and the workforce with Matt Dombrowski, Kimberly Forbes, and Cynthia Krebs

Recent research from Pearson shows that nearly $165B is lost each year when students can't find work after graduation. The transition from education to the workforce can be challenging to navigate. How can you help close the gap?

We sat down with three powerhouse educators to get their thoughts.

First, Matt Dombrowski. Matt is a Professor, Assistant Director, and Art Director for the nonprofit Limbitless Solutions, whose mission is providing cost free, accessible solutions to underserved communities. He leads an interdisciplinary student team in the creation of 3D printed, visually expressive bionic arms and video game training for children with limb difference. His work has been featured by Adobe, TEDx Youth, Huffington Post, Gamasutra, Fast Company, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, GDC, SXSWEDU, and the Gates Foundation. Matt is an Adobe Education Leader and an Adobe Partner By Design.

Second, Dr. Kimberly Forbes. Dr. Forbes is the Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools and a first-generation high school and college graduate. After a successful tenure in the banking industry managing startup operations, she transitioned to education, eventually earning her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction in 2024. A recognized leader in workforce readiness, Dr. Forbes has served on the national "Launch" committee and was named the NCDPI Piedmont Triad Region's Administrator of the Year. She is deeply committed to administrative innovation and expanding industry credentialing to ensure all students, including special populations, are prepared for the modern economy.

Third, Cynthia Krebs. Cynthia is the Program Director of Business Technologies and Education and a professor in the Information Systems and Technology Department at Utah Valley University. Since joining UVU in 1988, she has held multiple roles including Assistant Dean of the School of Business and Department Chair of the Digital Media Department and the Office Technology/Administration Department.

In this episode, these three experts discuss strategies that prepare your students for real-world success. We hit a little bit of everything:

1. Challenges students currently face

2. Key skills your students need to prepare them for the workforce

3. How to teach and empower students with AI expertise

4. The role of certification and work-based learning experiences

5. Creating a feedback loop between K12, higher education, and industry

Ready to help your students confidently bridge the gap between education and the workforce? This episode is for you.

Connect with educators like Matt, Kim, and Cynthia in our CERTIFIED Educator Community here.

Don't miss your chance to register for our annual CERTIFIED Educator's Conference here.