Leading the Moment: Building Youth Readiness in the AI Era
- kwoodard56
- May 19
- 3 min read
We’re at a turning point. As AI reshapes the workforce, over half of entry-level jobs are at risk, and the youth we serve face growing barriers to opportunity. This is our moment to come together and ensure under-resourced students aren’t left behind. At REACH Pathways™, we’re talking about AI not because it’s trendy, but because we believe it’s transforming the future of work. We have a responsibility to prepare the next generation for what’s next.
In partnership with future-forward organizations including The Academy Group, Chicago Scholars, and LEAP Innovations, REACH is launching a powerful series of events focused on what we can do right now to support student success in a rapidly changing world. Descriptions of the events below and register here: https://lu.ma/AIFutureofWork
📍 May 29 | 12 PM CT From Idea to Infrastructure: Building the Future of Youth-Serving Models
How do we scale sustainably? Is it really quality vs. quantity? In this session, we’ll explore how mission-driven organizations are responding to the challenge of growing demand and shrinking funding by blending nonprofit values with technology innovation and hybrid business models. Our expert panel includes Shawna Young, CEO of Camelback Ventures; Amu Fowler, Managing Partner of Startups Ignite; and Scott Frauenheim, CEO at LEAP Innovations and Distinctive Schools; and moderated by yours truly!
Expect real-world case studies, hard-won lessons, and breakout discussions on:
Building tech within nonprofit constraints featuring OneGoal, CareerVillage, Chicago Scholars, REACH, and more!
Structuring hybrid nonprofit/for-profit models that scale where we’ll get nerdy on structure and M&A
📍 June 4 | 9–11 AM CT | ChicagoPreparing Youth to Lead in the AI Era: Live Community Session
Chicago Scholars Offices, 247 S State St #700, Chicago IL, 60604
AI is already changing the world of work. So how do we equip students with the fluency and tools they need to lead in it? Enjoy breakfast bites, visit interactive tables, and explore what’s working across classrooms, campuses, and communities.
Join educators, employers, students, and technologists for a high-energy, hands-on event featuring:
Expert panel on the changing nature of work, including the Teach for America Reinvention Lab, MJ Ventures, LEAP Innovations, The Academy Group, and one of our REACH Advisors.
Live tool demonstrations + use them yourself!
Community dialogue on future-ready skill building
Not in Chicago? No worries, we’re having a virtual session on June 10, check it out below.
📍 June 10 | 12 PM CT | Virtual
Preparing Youth to Lead, Part 2: The AI Workforce and Emerging TalentFrom AI engineering pathways to automation eliminating jobs, this interactive session dives deeper into what the future demands, and how we train youth to meet it. Join CodePath, MJ Ventures, REACH, The Academy Group, and leading experts and then engaging in breakout sessions to go deeper.
📍 July 22 | 6 PM | TechWeek Chicago in Person
Connected for Impact: How Schools, Nonprofits, and EdTech Are Shaping the Future of Learning and WorkLearn more about the incredible EdTech ecosystem in Chicago! An evening of networking and powerful partnerships, plus bites, drinks, and local innovation. We’re teaming up with the The EdTech Institute of Chicago, Future of Higher Education, CS4IL, National Louis University, and more to emphasize the power of collaboration to serve youth.
📍 July 23 | 12 PM CT | Virtual
Rethinking Early Talent: Recruiting and Retaining Gen Z in an AI WorldRecruiters and employers bring expert advice on how to find real talent in a landscape shaped by AI resumes, ghosting, and shifting generational expectations.
📍 Ongoing Summer Power Hour Series, May 28, June 17, and July 15 at 5:30 PM CT
Supporting students with real tools, skills, and monthly $250 prizes
Our youth-focused summer series continues with monthly sessions on resume building, interview prep, and networking, plus real rewards for showing up and leveling up.
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