AARP and Rio Salado's 50+ Worker Program
Designed for Employers and 50+ Workers
By: State: Arizona | Source: aarp.org
AARP Arizona and Rio Salado College have worked together to produce the first comprehensive 50+ Worker program of its kind in the country. Launched earlier this year as a pilot, the program is offered through the College's Lifelong Learning Center in Surprise, Arizona, and includes six educational sessions; three focused on employer issues, and three centered on assisting the 50+ worker with re-careering challenges.
Todd Aakhus, Ph.D., is the director of the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center. "This program has been developed and offered to meet the needs of one of the largest growing segments of the country's working population, the 50+ worker. As a community college, part of our purpose is to train local workforces. This program positions us well to meet the needs of our stakeholders."
National trends point to the notion that the 50+ worker will play an increasing role in building and sustaining robust local economies. Arizona continues to be a leader in addressing issues affecting mature adults.
"Our state has a large retirement population, which increases our probability of working with older residents. I believe that we are positioned well to make a positive contribution to our communities by working with this particular demographic; assisting them to identify work interests, and then take action to re-career into positions that are both meaningful and productive," added Aakhus.
AARP in Arizona has been working with Rio Salado to develop the course curriculum since 2006. "We are excited that we have now reached the point where our discussions will move into the classroom and help not only 50+ workers refine and retool their skills but help employers understand the value and importance of their 50+ workforce," said David Mitchell, AARP Arizona State Director.
AARP research indicates that by 2012, nearly 20% of the total U.S. workforce will be 55 years of age and over. "Many of today's 50+ workers want to work and want viable work options as they age," added Mitchell. "This program is designed to help them do that."
The first full series of six classes was offered at the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center in spring 2008. Planning has started for a fall series.
"Our goal is to offer the programs throughout Maricopa County through our sister Maricopa Community Colleges and ultimately to folks across the nation by offering them online," Aakhus added.
To find out more visit riosalado.edu or call the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center at 480-377-4250.
Todd Aakhus, Ph.D., is the director of the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center. "This program has been developed and offered to meet the needs of one of the largest growing segments of the country's working population, the 50+ worker. As a community college, part of our purpose is to train local workforces. This program positions us well to meet the needs of our stakeholders."
National trends point to the notion that the 50+ worker will play an increasing role in building and sustaining robust local economies. Arizona continues to be a leader in addressing issues affecting mature adults.
"Our state has a large retirement population, which increases our probability of working with older residents. I believe that we are positioned well to make a positive contribution to our communities by working with this particular demographic; assisting them to identify work interests, and then take action to re-career into positions that are both meaningful and productive," added Aakhus.
AARP in Arizona has been working with Rio Salado to develop the course curriculum since 2006. "We are excited that we have now reached the point where our discussions will move into the classroom and help not only 50+ workers refine and retool their skills but help employers understand the value and importance of their 50+ workforce," said David Mitchell, AARP Arizona State Director.
AARP research indicates that by 2012, nearly 20% of the total U.S. workforce will be 55 years of age and over. "Many of today's 50+ workers want to work and want viable work options as they age," added Mitchell. "This program is designed to help them do that."
The first full series of six classes was offered at the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center in spring 2008. Planning has started for a fall series.
"Our goal is to offer the programs throughout Maricopa County through our sister Maricopa Community Colleges and ultimately to folks across the nation by offering them online," Aakhus added.
To find out more visit riosalado.edu or call the Rio Salado College Lifelong Learning Center at 480-377-4250.
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