Lee Wheeler-Berliner and Stuart Jenkins, Executive Director Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado Alliance and Education and Training Steering Committee Member
On Feb. 27, 2025, Lee Wheeler-Berliner, managing director for the Colorado Workforce Development Council, spoke at Boys & Girls Clubs (BGCC) Legislation Day at the state Capitol, focusing on talent development and career pathways for Coloradans. Lee highlighted trends in skills-based hiring and developing skills for youth with the use of tools like My Colorado Journey, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between the government and nonprofit sectors to address workforce challenges. He also discussed the shifting demographics in Colorado, such as lower in-migration and plateauing birth rates, and the impact of these trends.
Lee Wheeler-Berliner and Aaron Miltenberger, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley and Council Member
Wheeler-Berliner also noted that many learners are working in fields unrelated to their studies, with industry exposure becoming crucial for success. He pointed to sectors like aerospace, energy, and quantum technology as high-demand areas for future workers. Lee’s presentation highlighted the importance of developing skills-based strategies that promote workforce retention and long-term employment stability for youth. His remarks aligned with BGCC’s ongoing efforts to support youth development in Colorado. Aaron Miltenberger of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley, who is also a Council member, shared insights on funding opportunities for programs addressing opioid prevention and social media internships.
Where to go for more:
Check out the 2024 Talent Pipeline Report
Explore programs at the Boys and Girls Club of San Luis Valley