There are 41.5 million Americans who left college without earning a degree—but many would return if given the right opportunity. In this episode, Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Alana Rose, Vice President of Academic Networks at InStride, about how workforce education and corporate partnerships can unlock a hidden enrollment market.

The Workforce Education Advantage

• Employer-funded education provides debt-free learning opportunities for employees.

• Workforce development programs help companies upskill employees and retain talent.

• Higher education institutions gain access to non-traditional learners and new revenue streams.

Meeting the Needs of Non-Traditional Students

• Online and hybrid learning formats offer flexibility for working adults.

• Stackable credentials and credit for prior learning support degree completion.

• Institutions must provide tailored student support to improve retention.

Aligning Higher Ed with Workforce Needs

• Corporate partnerships ensure programs match industry demands.

• Employers seek a balance of technical, business, and durable skills.

• Advisory boards help shape relevant curricula.

Three Takeaways for University Presidents and Boards

1. Leverage Corporate Partnerships – Workforce education is a growing enrollment strategy.

2. Lower Barriers to Access – Flexible pathways and support services drive student success.

3. Invest in Institutional Resources – Dedicated staff is essential for scaling employer-funded education.

Workforce education presents a major opportunity for higher education leaders. Tune in to learn how institutions can align with corporate needs, create sustainable enrollment pipelines, and provide meaningful educational pathways for non-traditional students.

Read the transcript on our website: https://changinghighered.com/hidden-enrollment-market-in-workforce-education/

#HigherEdEnrollment #WorkforceEducation #EmployerSponsoredEducation

About Our Podcast Guest

Alana Rose is Vice President of Academic Network at InStride, where she leads partnerships with top-tier universities and educational institutions to deliver innovative workforce education programs. With over a decade of experience in higher education and university relations, Alana has a proven track record of fostering partnerships that drive institutional growth and expand access to education for working learners. Prior to InStride, Alana held leadership roles at Emeritus and 2U, overseeing operations for university partners and scaling global online education programs. Alana earned her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Southern California.

Connect with Alana Rose on LinkedIn →

About the Podcast Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton is the founder, CEO, and Principal Consultant at The Change Leader, Inc. A highly sought-after higher education consultant with 20+ years of experience, Dr. McNaughton works with leadership, management, and boards of U.S. and international institutions. His expertise spans key areas, including accreditation, governance, strategic planning, presidential onboarding, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances. Dr. McNaughton's approach combines a holistic methodology with a deep understanding of the contemporary and evolving challenges facing higher education institutions worldwide to ensure his clients succeed in their mission.

Connect with Drumm McNaughton on LinkedIn→