In the News: Mayrose Discusses Evolving Workforce

James Mayrose, Buffalo State College provost and vice president for academic affairs, recently spoke to Buffalo Business First for a story on how local colleges are preparing for workforce changes.

Titled “How WNY Colleges Are Preparing Students for Evolving Workforce,” the story by Lian Bunny points out some of the trends that have been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the need for soft skills and digital literacy.

“When we find out an industry is looking for a certain set of skills, we incorporate that into our curriculum so that students are better prepared to enter into the workforce,” Mayrose said in the piece.

Mayrose also discussed the need for flexibility in providing education and training for those already in the workforce. Not everyone needs a college degree, he said, but some need a certificate or specific credentials. That’s why Buffalo State has rolled out a number of micro-credentials, certificate programs, and workshops for working professionals over the last few years.

Over the summer, for instance, the Hospitality and Tourism Department held an eight-week program for the general public, involving both hard and soft skills. The program was so well received that the college plans to continue it, Mayrose said.