To prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving landscape of the workforce, it is crucial for educational institutions to equip them  with relevant job-based skills as part of their college or university journey. This session explores innovative strategies that colleges and universities can leverage to cultivate a more workforce-ready graduate and how companies can build on those skills to ensure long term learning and workforce retention. As part of this session we will discuss the intersection of academia and industry demands, fostering a dialogue on effective approaches to bridge the gap between traditional education and the ever-changing job market, and approaches to supporting adult learners to promote workforce success and retention.