308. Build Workforce Readiness Through Community with Chaz Van De Motter

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Chaz Van De Motter, Vice President of Operations at New Reach, to explore how community-based learning can help young people move more quickly from education to meaningful income. Chaz explains how New Reach combines education, live events, technology, mentorship, and peer support to create practical pathways into entrepreneurship, real estate, skilled trades, and other careers.

We also discuss the skills students need to become workforce ready, including financial literacy, focused problem-solving, relationship-building, and the responsible use of AI. Chaz shares why access to information alone is not enough and how accountability, personalized guidance, and strong networks can help learners turn knowledge into action. Join us to explore how educators can prepare students to navigate new technologies, build career confidence, and take greater ownership of their futures.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• Creating alternative pathways from learning to earning

• Building community, mentorship, and accountability into education

• Teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship at an earlier age

• Helping aspiring entrepreneurs define their audience, value, and financing needs

• Preparing students to use AI responsibly in the workforce

• Replacing passive content consumption with practical, outcome-driven learning

Resources:

• New Reach’s Website

• New Reach’s LinkedIn

• New Reach’s Instagram

• New Reach’s TikTok 

• Transcript

Produced by NOVA