In Ask5: From Possibility to Purpose: Lessons from a Career in
Workforce Development, David Czuba '08 shared how earning a
degree from SUNY Empire helped expand career opportunities and reinforced the
value of lifelong learning. They reflected on a career journey that included
several transitions, demonstrating that careers are rarely linear and that being
open to new experiences, building transferable skills, and embracing change can
lead to unexpected opportunities.
The discussion explored the current workforce landscape,
highlighting industries experiencing significant demand, the evolving needs of
employers, and the challenges both organizations and job seekers face in
today's labor market. The conversation emphasized that technical skills alone
are no longer enough—adaptability, communication, problem-solving, and
continuous learning have become essential for long-term career success.
A key focus was the gap between employer expectations and
workforce readiness. Our guest discussed how stronger partnerships between
education providers, employers, and workforce development organizations can
better prepare individuals for today's workplace while supporting ongoing
professional growth throughout their careers.
The session concluded with practical advice for individuals
considering careers in workforce development or navigating career transitions
of their own. Listeners were encouraged to remain curious, invest in
relationship-building, seek out learning opportunities, and approach their
careers with resilience and confidence. The conversation reinforced that career
development is an ongoing journey and that success comes from continually
adapting, growing, and remaining open to new possibilities.
Bio: David Czuba returned to college after 20 years to pursue a
higher education. He earned his Bachelor
of Science degree in Business Administration through the State University of
New York at Empire State College, Saratoga Springs, NY, through its Center for
Distance Learning in 2008. David earned
his MBA in Sustainable Business from Green Mountain College in Poultney,
Vermont in 2010.
David relocated from New York to Washington State in
2004. He was an adjunct faculty and
later the business chair with Charter College, a career college in Bellingham,
Washington. Afterwords, he taught for 5 years at the Cascades Job Corps
center. He is now a workforce
coordinator at WorkSource, an American Job Center located in Mount Vernon,
Washington.
During his career, Mr. Czuba worked in industries ranging
from aerospace manufacturing and health insurance to direct mail and IT
support. He has written two books, Distance
Learning for Adult Students, and The Mythic Quest: My Pursuit of the
Fabled Career.
