Regional collaboration continues with the Skyline College Center for International Trade Development. The Bay Area CITD, in partnership with regional community colleges, launched its first Business and Industry Leaders Advisory Forum for Global Trade and Logistics (GTL) on Wednesday, April 8, 2015. As host of the Advisory Forum, Richard Soyombo, Dean of GLPS, welcomed a room full of industry leaders. The CITD, led by Yvonne Reid, facilitated an interactive session between bay area leaders and community college deans, faculty and DSNs from Skyline College including the Veteran’s Center, Contra Costa College, and College of Alameda.
Company and industry representatives including eCommerce, global supply chain management, third party logistics, non-vessel operated common carriers, law firms, the Workforce Investment Board, high school naval academy and private college institutions. This group shared insights about the skill gaps that employers have identified among job candidates. Among the areas of concern were Basic Knowledge Skills, Applied Skills, and GTL core competencies.
BILAF will hold quarterly meetings and webinar conference calls to collaborate on the alignment of GTL curriculum and programs aligned with industry needs. Developing career pathways for new entrants and incumbent workers will be the focus of their next meeting. Having regional community college CTE programs prepare students as GTL industry skilled workers who will serve as a pipeline for employers is essential for local and global economic growth.
For more information about the CITD and the Global Trade & Logistics Program, please contact Yvonne Reid, MS BA at reidy@smccd.edu, telephone: 650-738-7098.
Article by Yvonne Reid | Photos by Maryam Hadi
