Duct Tape Marketing

Hiring ready-made talent is harder than ever, especially for small businesses competing in an AI-driven job market. In this episode, workplace futurist Alexandra Levit explains how work-based learning programs can help small businesses build a sustainable talent pipeline while addressing the youth employment crisis. Learn how apprenticeships, internships, and mentorship-driven workforce development strategies can close the skills gap, strengthen community ties, and improve employee retention. If you are looking for practical ways to recruit, train, and retain skilled workers without relying solely on traditional college degrees, this conversation offers a clear, actionable roadmap. Today we discussed: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:23 Building a Talent Pipeline with WBL 00:00:56 What Is Work-Based Learning? 00:02:19 Youth Employment Crisis and Skills Gap 00:04:38 Trade Stigma and Shifting Labor Demand 00:07:08 GPS Education Partners Model 00:13:16 Starting Small: Employer Playbook 00:17:22 Certifications, AI Ski