Position Summary:

The Director of Workforce Development is responsible for leading the development and implementation of workforce development initiatives within Oklahoma City Public Schools. The Director will collaborate with district leaders, educators, and community partners to develop strategies, programs, and initiatives that prepare students for success in post-secondary education, the workforce, and lifelong learning. The Director will work to identify industry needs and trends to inform curriculum development and coordinate with stakeholders to support student achievement and increase workforce readiness. Essential Duties: Develop and implement workforce development initiatives that align with district goals and support student achievement. Collaborate extensively with the district’s Directors of Counseling and CTE, as well as other district leaders, educators, and community partners to identify workforce needs and develop programs that prepare students for success in the workforce. Stay up to date with industry trends and labor market data to inform curriculum development and career pathways. Work with educators to integrate career readiness, exploration, and planning into the curriculum, ensuring that students have the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the workforce. Identify and cultivate relationships with community partners, including local businesses and organizations, to provide opportunities for students to explore careers and engage in work-based learning opportunities and hands-on experience in various industries through internships, job shadowing, and apprenticeships. Develop and implement career readiness programs, such as career fairs, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops. In collaboration with district, school, and department leaders, develop and deliver professional development for educators and staff to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to support student success in the workforce. Collaborate with other OKCPS departments to analyze data and metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of workforce development and program initiatives and implement improvements as needed. Serve as a liaison to state and national organizations focused on workforce development, staying current on trends and best practices in the field. Develop and maintain relationships with local and regional post-secondary institutions to promote access and success for students. Create and facilitate opportunities for industry partners to engage with OKCPS and assist in the development and implementation of industry partner programs in support of student learning excellence. Collect and analyze data to monitor and report on workforce development program outcomes to district leaders and stakeholders. Identifies grant and other funding opportunities for and assists in the preparation of applications for work-based learning opportunities. Assists in the implementation and interpretation of policies, procedures and other mandated requirements from the District, OK State Department of Education, OK Department of Career and Technology Education, and other agencies as applicable. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities): Master's degree in education, business, or a related field. At least five (5) years of experience in workforce development or a related field. Experience leading workforce development programs or initiatives. Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written. Strong analytical and data-informed decision-making skills. Knowledge of trends and best practices in workforce development and education. *Relevant experience may be substituted for formal education at a 2:1 ratio. Therefore for every one year of college lacking, two years of directly relevant experience may be substituted. Physical/Mental Requirements: Must have the adequate manual dexterity to write legibly and perform required duties on the computer. Must have adequate visual acuity to read, interpret and transcribe written material and other required duties. Requires normal range of hearing and clear speaking abilities to interact appropriately with others in person and on the telephone. Requires some stooping, bending, stretching and occasional lifting not to exceed 25 pounds. Sitting for prolonged periods of time. May periodically require work outside of normal business hours, including weekends, under sometimes. stressful conditions in order to meet business needs and strict deadlines. Work Environment: Office duties will be performed in a well-lighted, climate-controlled environment. Reports To: Executive Director of College and Career Planning FSLA Status: Exempt Compensation: 903 Work Days: 242 FTE: 1.00