Credential Innovation: University-to-Business (U2B) Stakeholder Engagement - May 2026
Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 05/20/2026 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
- Registration Closed
Faculty Member
Annette Roberts Webb
Dean, University Extension, University of California Merced
Cost
Members: $459.00
Non-Members: $599.00
Course Description
As demand grows for workforce-aligned learning, employer engagement is critical to designing relevant, scalable, and sustainable credentials. This five-week course offers a just-in-time learning experience grounded in UPCEA’s University-to-Business (U2B) Stakeholder Engagement Tenets and supported by Human-Centered Design (HCD) principles.
Participants will explore the U2B Design Framework, which blends UPCEA’s five tenets—Research, Validate, Co-Design, Prototype, and Iterate—with adaptable strategies and tools that support empathy, collaboration, and responsiveness. Through hands-on activities and peer exchange, participants will discover practical approaches to align microcredentials, training, or other offerings with workforce needs and institutional priorities.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, the course supports reflection, benchmarking, and real-world application to help learners build trust-based partnerships with employers and design for strategic, sustainable impact. Designed for both new and experienced professionals across roles, the course builds institutional capacity for employer-responsive credential innovation—wherever your journey begins.
This is a five-week course starts May 4, 2026.
Annette Roberts Webb
Dean, University Extension, University of California Merced
University of California Merced
Summary:Annette Roberts Webb has been at the forefront of credential innovation at UC Merced, leading the development of workforce-aligned microcredentials that meet the needs of California’s rural industries. Her work has significantly contributed to increased enrollment and revenue, and she has built strong partnerships with local businesses in sectors such as agriculture and healthcare. Annette’s ability to co-design credentials with employers ensures that programs are both relevant and scalable, making a significant impact on regional workforce development.
Training Design and Mentorship:
Annette has extensive experience in designing professional development programs for faculty and industry partners. She has mentored faculty in developing credential programs that are aligned with employer needs and is dedicated to guiding them through the process of designing, piloting, and scaling successful credential programs that meet workforce demands.
