BEL Commission

The vision of the Business Experiential-Learning (BEL) Commission is to integrate experiential learning opportunities into Colorado's talent development network.

BEL Commission Guiding Objectives 2022-2024

Improve processes, remove barriers & develop training

Year 1: Simplify process for employers to engage in work-based learning (WBL)
- Map opportunities for employers to get started offering WBL
- Secure funds to define a statewide WBL support model
- Promote engagement opportunities tied to Governors Apprenticeship Executive Order

Assess value and improve data collection

Year 1: Define quality standards for the WBL Continuum and assess availability of quality programs
- Develop and publish quality standards across the continuum
- Identify what data exists and is publicly available to assess quality Identify gaps in data

Communicate & Engage

Year 1: Develop clear messaging and case studies
- Develop key messages to speak to the broader Economic Development for the community
- Capture anecdotes & stories from those who chose alternate pathways.
- Highlight earning potential of careers straight out of high school vs. college
- Provide case studies, testimonials & lessons learned from participation

BEL Commission Members

BEL Commissioners are appointed by the Governor to serve an initial term of 2-3 years. Subsequent terms are two years long.

Noel David Ginsburg, Chair. Founder and CEO, CareerWise Colorado

Joe Barela. Executive Director, Colorado Department of Labor and Employment

Angie Paccione, Ph.D. Executive Director, Colorado Department of Higher Education

Eve Lieberman, Office of Economic Development and International Trade

Lee Wheeler-Berliner. Managing Director, Colorado Workforce Development Council

Susana Córdova, Commissioner of Education, Colorado Department of Education

Binh Diep. General Manager, Slalom Consulting

Dharam Patel. Principal, The Patel Group LLC

Don Haddad. Superintendent, St. Vrain Valley School District

Gerald Arnold. Business Manager/Financial Secretary-Treasurer, Denver Pipefitters Local #208

Joe Garcia. Chancellor, Colorado Community College System

Karen Perham-Lippman. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director, Jensen Hughes

Ken Haptonstall. Executive Director, Colorado River BOCES

Karla Nugent, Chief Revenue Officer, Weifield Group Contracting

Wes Parham. Vice President - Public Affairs, Pinnacol Assurance

BEL Committees

The BEL Commission has two committees comprised of BEL Commission members and representatives from other organizations.

Advocacy Committee:
The advocacy committee drafts and signs off on briefing statements for state and federal bills and policy relevant to the BEL Commission.

Marketing Committee:
The marketing committee advises on the development of a strategic communications plan that builds awareness, adoption, and support for the experiential learning system.

Executive Orders