Harnessing the Future Workforce: Continuous Learning and Adaptation for 2024 and Beyond

In today's rapidly evolving job market, the Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network (CRLLEN) is leading the charge in preparing our community for the workforce demands of 2024 and beyond. Insights from Martin Collins, Team Leader North and Western Victoria, Victorian Skills Authority at our recent AGM, have highlighted the critical need for our region to embrace continuous learning and adaptability as we face the future of work. This forward-thinking approach is essential to meet the changing needs of employers and industries in the coming years. Drawing on these insights and the perspectives of Tara Kirk, School, Industry, and Projects Manager at CRLLEN, we explore the essential skills needed for the workforce of 2024 and beyond, emphasising the crucial role of work-based learning opportunities for young people in our community.

The Changing Landscape of Work

*Source: Collins, M. (2022, May 17). Future Workforce Needs [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from https://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/newsroom/2024crllenagm*

Martin Collins' presentation highlighted that Victoria expects 352,000 new workers to enter the economy between 2023 and 2026, with 75,000 of these in regional areas. Importantly, 64% of these new workers will need higher-order skills. For the Central Ranges region specifically, this translates to a need for 7,608 new workers by 2026, covering both new jobs and replacements for retirees.

Key industries driving this growth include healthcare and social assistance, accommodation and food services, education and training, and public administration. This diverse range of sectors underscores the need for a workforce equipped with versatile skills that can be applied across various fields.

Rising Education Requirements

A significant shift in the job market is the increasing demand for higher levels of education and training. As Martin Collins points out, "Jobs of the future are going to require a Certificate IV education level and above." This marks a notable change from previous entry-level requirements, which often cantered around Certificate III qualifications, particularly for trades.

This shift emphasises the need for individuals to engage in higher education to remain competitive in the job market. It also underscores the growing importance of lifelong learning and continuous upskilling to meet evolving industry demands.

Essential Skills for the Future
The presentation emphasised several key areas of skill development crucial for the future workforce:
Digital and Technological Proficiency
Sustainability and Clean Energy Skills
Higher-Order Thinking
Adaptability and Continuous Learning
Soft Skills
Martin Collins highlights the importance of these skills in his presentation, stating, "**The changing economy requires workers with higher-order skills that align with the needs of today and tomorrow's job market."** He emphasises that industries are seeking individuals who can adapt and thrive in a tech-driven and sustainable future.

Pictured: Martin Collins speaking at CRLLEN AGM.

CRLLEN's Role in Workforce Development

At CRLLEN, we play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment. Our organisation works tirelessly to create work-based learning opportunities for young people by collaborating with a diverse network of stakeholders. This includes community organisations, education and training providers, government bodies, and local businesses.

Tara Kirk, our School, Industry, and Projects Manager, highlights the importance of this collaborative approach: "At CRLLEN, we see firsthand the growing need for skills that bridge traditional industries with modern technologies and sustainable practices. By partnering with various industries, we're able to create real-world learning experiences that prepare young people for the future of work and give them the experience of the multitude of opportunities that are available. To better prepare them for their employment choices and journeys."

Our initiatives focus on:

Promoting post-secondary education and diverse career pathways.
Facilitating partnerships between educational institutions and local industries.
Developing programs that foster digital literacy and sustainable practices.
Encouraging lifelong learning and adaptability among workers of all ages.
Creating work-based learning opportunities that give young people practical experience in their chosen fields.

Lifelong Learning: A New Paradigm

The concept of lifelong learning has become increasingly crucial in today's rapidly changing job market. As Martin Collins notes, "People are going to be upskilling and engaging in lifelong learning." This shift reflects the need for workers to continuously adapt and enhance their skills throughout their careers.

CRLLEN is committed to supporting this paradigm by:

Promoting awareness of the importance of continuous learning
Facilitating access to upskilling opportunities
Collaborating with educational institutions to develop flexible learning pathways
Connecting young people with work-based learning experiences that foster ongoing skill development

Looking Ahead

As we move towards 2024 and beyond, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn will be paramount. The future workforce in the Central Ranges region - our young people - will need to be agile, tech-savvy, and environmentally conscious. By fostering these skills now and embracing the concept of lifelong learning, we can ensure our community and its next generation of workers are well-positioned to thrive in the evolving job market.

CRLLEN is committed to its role as a facilitator and connector, bringing together community organisations, educational institutions, government bodies, and local businesses to create meaningful work-based learning opportunities for young people. Through these partnerships, we aim to build a resilient, adaptable workforce ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future, equipped with the higher-level qualifications and continuous learning mindset that tomorrow's jobs will demand.

Through our collective commitment, we can ensure that the young people of the Central Ranges region are well-prepared for the exciting and dynamic future that lies ahead, armed with the skills, experience, and adaptability needed to thrive in the workforce of the future.

Join Us in Building the Future Workforce

Are you a young person looking to develop the skills for tomorrow's job market, or a business wanting to shape the future workforce? Partner with CRLLEN today! Explore our work-based learning opportunities, and collaborate with us to create meaningful learning experiences that bridge the gap between education and employment.

Get Involved Today!

Visit CRLLEN's work-based learning page to learn more and get started. Let's build a resilient and thriving future together.