PATRICK GILLEN
PROJECT ASSOCIATE
Expertise: Workforce Development
Team Member Since: 2019
What attracted you to education and workforce development?
I got my start at a workforce development nonprofit working in fundraising. Seeing firsthand how a workforce system aligned with the needs of industry benefitted everyone, I became passionate about being part of the work towards that goal in our region. Coming into this team in the middle of a global pandemic that is causing record unemployment feels like an opportunity to help rebuild our workforce in a way that works better for everyone.
What TPMA value means the most to you and why?
A guiding principal of mine is to try to improve the world around me as I move through it. Because of this, the TPMA value of Community Impact resonates most with me. Seeing that TPMA is committed to holistic solutions that result in systemic change for our communities was a deciding factor for me in joining the team.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the upward trajectory of my city, region, and state. My family has deep roots in the trades spanning from Cleveland to Youngstown, and to be part of a team that works hard to ensure career opportunities with family-sustaining wages in manufacturing exist for the next generation is a point of pride for me.
What is the most impactful project you have been a part of?
The most impactful project I have worked on was WorkAdvance, with Towards Employment. Seeing how nonprofits could partner with employers to customize a workforce solution that fit their needs while benefitting the larger community opened my eyes to new ways that people could get on a pathway to family-sustaining wages. It was an unexpected and happy surprise when I learned that I would continue to interface with WorkAdvance in this role as well.
Contact Patrick
