How LERs Help Transition to a Skills-Based Economy

Merit Minutes with Extension Foundation's Jason Weigle

We sat down with Jason Weigle, Program Manager at the Extension Foundation, to explore how tools such as  Digital Wallets and Learning and Employment Records (LERs) provide visibility and support to nontraditional career pathways, including ones where individuals gain experience at community colleges. With his extensive experience in community and economic development and entrepreneurship, Jason offers a unique perspective on this new approach.

Q1: Traditional degrees have long been seen as the primary indicator of a person's abilities.  How can we shift our focus from traditional degrees to a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's capabilities in today's workforce?

Jason: “A degree isn’t the whole person; it’s just a representation of what they’ve accomplished over four years.” He emphasizes that shifting our focus from degrees to a broader understanding of an individual requires recognizing the limitations of traditional education. “A degree is like a mini toolbox; it provides a glimpse of a person's achievements but doesn't reveal the full range of their skills and experiences.” He adds, “Sometimes that social license to operate has gotten a little tarnished because you can’t tell what’s in the toolbox anymore.”

Q2: In that same regard, how can Digital Wallets and Learning and Employment Records (LERs) empower job seekers and learners to display their full capabilities—beyond what a degree offers?

Jason: “If we can start showcasing individuals' skills and experiences early enough, we can create a more complete view of their capabilities.” Digital Wallets and Learning and Employment Records (LERs) compile various credentials from an individual's career journey, enabling them to present their skills in a transparent and verifiable format. This approach not only improves visibility but also enhances the chances that employers will recognize the true skill sets of job seekers.

Q3: It’s common for learners to assume the natural pathway after high school is to enter large universities. However, we’re seeing that community colleges are critical in preparing students for the workforce. What are the benefits for a job seeker or learner to attend a community college on their career journey?

Jason: “Community colleges provide a supportive environment where students can develop foundational skills and gain practical experiences. It’s okay if someone wants to attend a local community college; they may need that extra one or two years to build their confidence and knowledge before transferring to a larger university to complete their degrees. Community colleges help students fill their toolbox with diverse skills and experiences by offering tailored programs and resources, ensuring they are well-equipped for future opportunities.”

Q4:  How can we utilize digital wallets and Learning and Employment Records (LERs) to effectively recognize and highlight practical skills and experiences in workforce development?

Jason: “There’s an opportunity to make those things we do day in and day out valuable beyond personal satisfaction.” By utilizing Digital Wallets and LERs, we can capture and highlight practical skills like safe food preparation and sanitation. “These tools allow us to recognize and showcase skills that individuals may not always receive credit for, ultimately enhancing their visibility to employers and improving their career prospects.”

Q5:  Trust is essential in verifying skills. What challenges do organizations face in this area, and how can they establish trust effectively?

Jason: “The challenge for every company and educator is the verification part.” Building trust is crucial and takes time and reputation. In the oil and gas industry, for instance, a concept known as a social license to operate refers to the trust and understanding between parties. “It’s really about showing what you’re trying to do, why you’re doing it, and how you’re doing it,” he explains.

Q6: The Extension Foundation has a long history of adopting new technologies. Can you share how it has contributed to workforce development and adopting innovative tools?

Jason: “Extension is well known for adoption and diffusion. One of the first things we did was rural electrification.” The foundation focuses on applying technology to improve access and skills across communities. “We strive to help everyone utilize these advancements effectively,” he concludes.

Our conversation with Jason Weigle gave us perspective on transitioning toward a skills-based economy, where Digital Wallets and Learning Employment Records (LERs) support these efforts. If we utilize technologies that show job seekers and learners diverse experiences, we can more purposefully fill talent pipelines. We empower job seekers and strengthen the entire workforce by embracing a holistic view of individual capabilities. “It’s about filling the toolbox with diverse skills,” Jason aptly stated, “to ensure we are well-equipped for the future.”