Hiring ready-made talent is harder than ever, especially for small businesses competing in an AI-driven job market. In this episode, workplace futurist Alexandra Levit explains how work-based learning programs can help small businesses build a sustainable talent pipeline while addressing the youth employment crisis. Learn how apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship-driven workforce development strategies can close the skills gap, strengthen community ties, and improve employee retention. If you are looking for practical ways to recruit, train, and retain skilled workers without relying solely on traditional college degrees, this conversation offers a clear, actionable roadmap.

Today we discussed:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:00:23 Building a Talent Pipeline with WBL

00:00:56 What Is Work-Based Learning?

00:02:19 Youth Employment Crisis and Skills Gap

00:04:38 Trade Stigma and Shifting Labor Demand

00:07:08 GPS Education Partners Model

00:13:16 Starting Small: Employer Playbook

00:17:22 Certifications, AI Skills, and Metrics

Rate, Review, & Follow

If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode.

Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

👉 Get Your Free Prompts: https://dtm.world/freeprompts