What does it take to transform early opportunities into lasting career mobility?
“ We must all [school districts, nonprofits, workforce] be in collaboration. It's not a choice, it's a necessity. I'm not saying it's always easy, but it's not something we can opt out of. ” -Dr. Monique Perry-Graves
In this episode of Lessons Learned, host Matt welcomes Dr. Monique Perry-Graves, CEO of Road to Hire, an organization dedicated to guiding students from Title I high schools into high-paying careers. Under her leadership, Road to Hire equips young adults with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to achieve economic mobility.
Dr. Graves shares her inspiring journey—from an INROADS intern to corporate leader, consultant, and now CEO—and how those experiences have shaped her vision for preparing students for the future of work. She emphasizes why early career exposure matters and how educators and industry leaders must collaborate to equip students with both the technical and foundational skills demanded by a rapidly changing economy.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
- How workforce readiness can be woven directly into K-12 learning
- The role of AI and emerging technologies in shaping future careers
- Why local partnerships—like these in Charlotte—are critical for opportunity and mobility
- How continuous professional development supports both educators and leaders
Closing with a hopeful vision, Dr. Graves highlights how intentional investments in young adults today can create the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers tomorrow.
Connect with our guest:
Ways to Tune In:
What is Lessons Learned?
Lessons Learned is a podcast by BetterLesson that takes a deep dive into the world of education through the eyes of K-12 district, state, and education leaders. Each episode focuses in on the real, innovative strategies school districts are employing to impact teaching and learning across the country. From rethinking the "portrait of a graduate" to building out systemic, sustained professional learning practices, our guests share the lessons they've learned along the way.