Co-chair of the Workforce and Talent Development Board, Essential Employability Skills Committee

The foundational basis of an individual being successful either in education or work is knowledge and consistent application of essential skills. Both education and industry asks for these, yet to date has never created both the consistent language or curriculum to inform, educate, practice , assess or certify… UNTIL NOW! OES is groundbreaking both in its simplicity as well as construction. As Co-Chair of the Workforce Talent and Development Board’s Workforce Readiness Committee, I have participated with a dynamic set of leaders from multiple businesses as well as agencies. The outcome of this effort now is to leverage and grow this curriculum so industry and education will speak one voice, one set of clearly understood principles, one giant effort to advance our talent forward.

OES Project Manager

Oregon Employability Skills has been a heartfelt endeavor. Driven by requests from our industry partners, we collaborated closely with educators to develop a curriculum that serves both employers and educators. It has been a privilege to manage this project and work with such incredible contractors. I anticipate that this project will have a positive economic impact for student learners, employees, and Oregon Industry. Enjoy!

Co-chair of the Workforce and Talent Development Board, Essential Employability Skills Committee

For years, I listened to business and industry partners emphasize the importance of teaching employability skills. When I first encountered the Oregon Employability Skills framework, even in its early stages, I knew it was a project I could wholeheartedly support. In 2022, I was honored to be asked to co-chair the WTDB WRC Committee. It has been an exciting journey to help guide and steer this initiative, and I am thrilled to see the early benefits it is bringing to both industry and education through collaborative efforts. Finally, we are making a tangible impact.

OES Early Innovator & Curriculum Development

As a CTE educator and business owner, I’ve witnessed firsthand the gap between traditional education and the real-world skills students need to succeed after leaving the classroom. Coming from industry, I knew what employers were seeking, and I’ve been fortunate to be part of a team dedicated to creating a curriculum that bridges this divide. OES empowers students with work-ready skills, ensuring they are prepared for meaningful careers they are passionate about. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited about the positive impact this will have on our future Oregonians.

Development Editor/Videographer

After many years in college textbook publishing, it was such a joy to help to create educational materials that were available without cost and that are sure to impact learners not only in their eventual careers, but immediately—in the classroom, at home, and in the community. The Oregon Employability Skills are also essential life skills, and learners will see a benefit in honing these skills today and throughout their lives.

It was satisfying to use my skills and experience as a classroom teacher and writer to help create the Oregon Employability Skills courses. In an ever-changing work landscape, it is critical that our young people learn professional skills that will allow them to be successful in the classroom and in the careers they choose. As both a parent and educator, I felt it was important to develop lessons that encourage students to draw connections between their interests and the skills they need to reach their career goals.

STEM, Literacy & Career-connected Learning Projects with OregonASK (Afterschool & Summer for Kids Statewide Network) 

As a former school library media teacher, I believe that there is a great book for almost every possible situation, concept or skill, so so this project was a perfect match between my experience and my current focus on Career-connected Learning. I love how using stories to illustrate and reinforce all the different employability skills is such a great way to stimulate conversation, help youth deepen their understanding, and inspire all of us to put those skills into practice in our own lives.

Special Education Teacher, Oregon Charter Academy

I am a dedicated special education teacher who designs curriculum to ensure multiple access points for all learners. I believe every student should have the opportunity to learn valuable life-long skills. I am passionate about promoting equity and access in education, striving to create inclusive learning environments where every student can succeed. I have particularly enjoyed working on and adapting the OES curriculum to fit the needs of all learners, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Learning Technologies Facilitator, Chemeketa Community College

As a career educator specializing in instructional design, educational technology and media production, I was excited to build out the OES Canvas courses. I have taught CTE courses and see the benefits of preparing students for the workforce. It is exciting to be a part of this project, creating educational materials that help students find their way toward a career path.

Secondary Tech TOSA

Jessie Nies is a Technology TOSA in the Hillsboro School District, where she excels in coaching educators on integrating technology into the classroom to enhance learning experiences. Building the OES Google Classrooms and tutorials for OES was a privilege. I wish I had training like this when I was in high school! It would have better equipped me with the skills I needed to enter the workforce with confidence.

OES reviewer, translator and user, Portland Public Schools

The Oregon Employability Skills Curriculum project was a genuine and collaborative initiative. OES curriculum is vital and highly recommended as it equips students with essential skills for the workforce, bridging the gap between education and employment and preparing students for diverse career paths. This initiative was made possible through collaboration among educators, community organizations, and industry partners to ensure the curriculum is relevant and effective. Translating the curriculum into multiple languages was particularly exciting as it makes it accessible to a broader audience, fostering inclusivity and allowing a diverse range of learners to benefit from these valuable resources.

Communications Specialist - Multimedia

Remy is a strong advocate for Oregon Employability Skills, valuing how they promote adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving—qualities he values deeply in his own professional journey. 

Communications Specialist at Willamette Education Service District

As a part of the education community and a parent, I'm excited to see how the implementation of Oregon Employability Skills influences my kids' educational experience and future career building. The strengthening partnership between education and industry in Oregon makes all the difference!