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Many students cannot enroll in traditional two- or four-year college programs, but they still want access to professional skills that lead to higher-paying jobs. In this episode, GradComm CEO Cheryl Broom speaks with Linda Kurokawa, Executive Director of Community Education & Workforce Development at MiraCosta College, about how noncredit workforce programs are helping to fill that gap.

Kurokawa shares how MiraCosta has become a statewide model through flexible offerings like brew-tech, machining, and phlebotomy. She explains how her department’s self-funded structure allows them to respond quickly to industry needs, leading to strong student outcomes. The conversation also explores the role of employer partnerships, future-thinking leadership, and how word-of-mouth and social media continue to drive enrollment.

What You’ll Learn:

• How noncredit workforce programs meet urgent student and industry needs
• The benefits of self-funded, flexible continuing education models
• Why colleges should build strong employer relationships
• Marketing tactics that work for short-term career programs
• Why entrepreneurial thinking is essential in today’s community colleges

Thanks for listening!

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