What Matters: A Love Letter to My Fellow Innovators
Just over a decade ago, I loaded my life into the back of my pickup truck and set off from Weehawken, New Jersey, to San Francisco, California. This journey was more than a relocation; it was an expression of my deep-seated ambition to create a better world, inspired by a difficult childhood in a working-class family rife with chaos. In a backdrop where even my last name seemed like a future hurdle (a story for another day), my life was marked by a necessity for change and adaptation. A decade later, my aim has expanded from simply improving the way professional educators are trained and recognized to expanding economic opportunities for Americans broadly. Echoing the challenging circumstances of my early years, the landscape for many Americans today is increasingly fraught with chaos and uncertainty.
During the quiet interludes between professional commitments and life's duties, I often find myself pondering my journey thus far. What drives me? What are my ultimate goals? At what point will I feel content? And crucially, who benefits from my tireless efforts and jam-packed schedule?
Recently, I had the honor of attending the 1EdTech Digital Credential Summit in New Orleans, Louisiana. This wasn't just another conference; for me, it was a reflection on a decade's journey. Instead of delving into the technical intricacies of our field, I sought to understand the driving force behind our collective mission. I was astounded to find that each attendee, without exception, shared a personal narrative of striving for more than the status quo for their communities and themselves.
If there’s one thing you take from this article, please know in your heart that every person I spoke to at the conference takes this shared mission personally.
So, What Truly Matters?
At the heart of our conferences was the question: What matters most? Why does this mission matter so much to you?
Indeed, I dedicated most of my time at this relatively technical conference to understanding the human motivations behind my fellow innovators' decisions to leave their families and communities and set out to the conference in New Orleans. My goal was to uncover the driving forces that brought us together to envision a better, collective future.
Is it the credentials, the digital wallets, the policies, or something more profound?
To my surprise, stories of resilience, ambition, and sacrifice painted a vivid picture of our collective "why." From tales of families adapting to a new life in the United States to small-town origins that echo the pioneering spirit of our forebears, these narratives underscore the essence of our lifelong learning and employment journeys. They speak to the need for clarity and support for those who dare to navigate the uncharted territories of the micro-credential landscape. One particularly moving encounter on a dimly lit Bourbon Street reminded me of the dignity deserved by working-class Americans like my grandfather, whose sacrifices transcend the imagined political and ideological disagreements that so easily divide.
After this short exercise in establishing authentic connections with my allies in arms, It has never been more clear that at the heart of our work lies a profound commitment to celebrating the heroic struggles, triumphs, and journeys of self-discovery within the learning communities we champion. These stories of transformation and resilience are not just narratives but powerful forces driving enduring meaningful change. We shape This unrealized future through our deeply shared belief that by lifting these voices, we're not just effecting change—we're honoring the essence of human potential and unity. This is our shared mission, a bond that connects us all, resonating with the core of who we are and what we aspire to achieve together.
❤️ special thanks to Luke Dowden, David Leaser, Jim Daniels, Nate Otto, Elizabeth Miller, Danielle Saunders, and Simone Ravaioli for posing for candids during the conference!
But, Who Truly Matters?
This moment of introspection brings me to the essence of the Micro-credential Multiverse's future.
My path has become so much more than simply promoting understanding and growth in this domain; it's been about acknowledging and celebrating the profound impact we have on our collective culture. At its core, it's about recognizing that you are indispensable.
Yes, you - the educational leader tirelessly innovating in your classrooms, envisioning a future where your institution not only values but harmonizes traditional and experiential forms of learning and assessment.
Yes, you - the business leader who understands that the heart of your success lies in the hands and minds of your team, fostering a culture of shared achievements.
And yes, you - the nonprofit leader who dreams of a future where your community not only envisions themselves in roles of success but also understands the journey necessary to turn that shared dream into reality.
Each of you plays a pivotal role in sculpting a future where our collective aspirations and achievements are envisioned and made tangible through our concerted efforts and shared dreams.
Introducing Our “Three Pillars”
Your stories and the challenges you've articulated have catalyzed the refinement of our foundational strategy: the "three pillars," a concept enlightened by my mentor, Martin Bean.
These pillars aren't merely components of our approach; they are the bedrock of our mission, intentionally designed to leverage our experience and transform your visions into reality, mirroring how you bring your learners' dreams to life. Each pillar complements the others, creating a cohesive structure that underpins the entirety of our work. Together, they form a robust framework to foster innovation and ensure sustainable, durable growth. Our goal, aligned with yours, is to make aspirations tangible, crafting a future where every learner's dream is not just a possibility but a reality.
Pillar 1: Dream it.
Innovative Strategic Advising and Planning for Digital Credentialing Ecosystems
Our strategic advising and consulting services provide clarity and alignment in the fast-paced world of digital credentialing. We work closely with your team to facilitate durable and sustainable systems change by understanding your goals and the needs of your unique community of stakeholders. Our experienced team tailors our strategic guidance to help you make informed decisions, launch your program with confidence, and support your learners and recognizers with rigorous industry-relevant micro-credentials with marketable currency.
Pillar 2: Build it.
Expert Project Management for Digital Credentialing Ecosystems
Our expert project managers bring deep knowledge and experience to every project. We collaborate with you to understand your goals, create a detailed plan, and execute it flawlessly. With our guidance, your digital credentialing program will be delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Our track record speaks for itself - we've managed some of the world's largest micro-credentialing ecosystems.
Pillar 3: Grow it.
Sustainable, Scalable, and Durable Growth for Your Digital Credentialing Ecosystem
Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve long-term success with your micro-credentialing program. We take a sustainable and scalable approach, analyzing market trends and opportunities to help you differentiate your offerings and expand your reach. With our guidance, you can maximize impact while ensuring the longevity of your program by getting the right people at the right time.
Empowering Through Knowledge (🔴 Micro-credential Mondays: Livestream 2 🎥 )
In line with our belief in the free flow of information, our recent livestream during the 1EdTech event focused on demystifying the core vocabulary of the micro-credential world. Despite the unexpected absence of a guest speaker, we took the opportunity to address fundamental concepts, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration and openness in the field.
Free Resource: Specifically, during this live stream, we covered the “Definitive Glossary of Terms” - an excellent resource for anyone getting started or trying to get on the same page.
Join Us on Our Next Journey
Don't miss the next edition of Micro-credential Mondays, streaming live on LinkedIn and YouTube on April 1st—Easter Monday, no joke. It's an opportunity not only to learn but to connect with a community that shares your aspirations and challenges.
Connect With Us
As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of micro-credentials, remember that your journey, challenges, and ambitions matter. We're here to support, guide, and collaborate with you every step of the way. Let's create a future where learning and opportunity are accessible to all, transcending boundaries and empowering individuals and communities alike.
Your engagement and feedback are what fuel this journey. Connect with us, share your stories, and let's together build a world that values and recognizes the diverse pathways of learning and achievement.
🌈 Together, we're not just navigating the future; we're creating it.
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