Unlocking Potential in After School: How Afterschool Programs are Shaping the Workforce of Tomorrow
By Nicole Lovecchio, Chief Learning Officer, Wings for Kids
Every afternoon, after the school bell rings, something extraordinary happens in afterschool programs. Classrooms and cafeterias transform into spaces where kids build skills that go far beyond academics. These moments matter because they’re not just about filling the hours between school and home; they’re about preparing kids to succeed in school, life, and the workforce of tomorrow.
The modern workplace is evolving rapidly, and success in any career now depends on more than technical knowledge. Skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leading with empathy are critical to thriving in any industry, and these are the very same competencies we teach every day. We focus on building these skills because we know they’re the foundation for future success.
Consider teamwork—how many times in a single day do you rely on working with others? Whether in a boardroom, in a hospital, or on a construction site, collaboration is essential. Through group projects, games, and structured discussions, our students learn to listen to each other, respect different perspectives, and work toward common goals. These are the building blocks of effective teamwork, and they start forming in the safe, supportive environment of afterschool programs like WINGS.
Problem-solving is another area where positive youth development takes center stage. In our programs, kids face challenges like resolving conflicts with peers, navigating complicated emotions, or figuring out how to complete a tricky task. We coach them through these moments, helping them practice perseverance, critical thinking, and decision-making. These small, everyday victories help kids develop the confidence and resilience they’ll need to tackle big challenges in the future workplace.
And let’s not forget leadership. At WINGS, students learn to set goals, inspire others, and take responsibility for their actions. Whether it’s leading a group activity, mentoring a younger student, or simply choosing kindness and empathy in a tough moment, these experiences plant the seeds for leadership that will bloom throughout their lives.
It’s clear today that employers across all sectors are seeking individuals who can communicate effectively, adapt to change, and build relationships—qualities rooted in strong social-emotional competencies. Yet, many students in under-resourced communities don’t have consistent opportunities to develop these skills. That’s where afterschool programs like WINGS come in.
For over two decades, I’ve seen firsthand how our programs give kids the tools they need to succeed, not just in school but in life. We empower students to believe in themselves, connect with others, and understand the impact they can have in their communities and beyond. And we do this intentionally, knowing that every activity, every conversation, and every lesson plays a role in shaping the future workforce.
Afterschool programs like WINGS are more than just a safe space for kids to go after school—they are a launching pad for their futures. By investing in these skills today, we are equipping the workforce of tomorrow with the skills to innovate, collaborate, and lead.
Nicole Lovecchio, Chief Learning Officer, Wings for Kids