Distinguished Conference Panel to Discuss Skills-Based Hiring & Training

One of the features of the 2024 KC IMAGINE: Building KC’s Digital Media Future conference is a panel discussion on skills-first hiring and training. KC IMAGINE is fortunate to have assembled an impressive panel of experts on this topic:

·      Jake Akehurst, Executive Director at UMKC’s TalentLink.  Jake will serve as the moderator of the panel. 

·      Molly Weaver is the Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Children’s Mercy

·      Fabiola Riobe is Vice-President of Educational Innovation & Global Programming at the Kansas City Community College

·      Alan Boyer is the Director of Digital Innovations at Kansas State University

·      Kate Moore is the Associate Director of Recruiting at Barkley

The digital media landscape is evolving rapidly, demanding a new approach to talent acquisition. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional educational qualifications.

Today, employers are increasingly prioritizing skills-based hiring and training. This shift is driven by the need for professionals who can adapt to the industry's constant changes and possess the specific abilities required for roles. By focusing on skills, companies can tap into a wider pool of talent, including individuals from diverse backgrounds who may not have traditional degrees but possess the necessary expertise.

Furthermore, skills-first hiring aligns with the emphasis on continuous learning and development in the digital media sector. As technology and consumer behavior advance, employees must continually update their skill sets. Companies that invest in training programs focused on in-demand skills can cultivate a more agile and adaptable workforce. This approach not only benefits the organization but also empowers employees to grow professionally and advance their careers.

This panel offers a wide range of perspectives on the issues related to skills-first hiring and training.  Jake Akehurst has extensive experience in aligning talent needs to training programs for businesses and professionals.  As a talent acquisition expert and consultant, Molly Weaver keeps a close eye on emerging trends in hiring practices.    Fabiola Riobe can share how community college programs are trying to meet skills-first hiring trends.  Alan Boyer can discuss the challenges to four-year degree programs and how universities are adjusting to this trend.  Kate Moore, as a hiring professional in the digital media industry can speak directly to the needs, challenges and issues experienced by digital media firms in today’s hiring landscape. 

Learn more about the 2024 conference, or register now.