Assessing the Influence of 4-H Participation on the Development of Workforce Readiness Skills

We examined the impact of 4-H participation on workforce readiness skill development, including personal, work, communication, and problem solving/decision-making. The study examined two levels of 4-H activities: county-level and state-level. The online survey instrument contained questions about demographics, skill development and 4-H participation. Respondents indicated participation in county-level activities was positively related to the development of the four workforce skills; however, participation in state-level activities was significantly related to the development of work skills. Problem solving/decision-making skills was least associated to county or state-level participation. We recommend Extension professionals intentionally incorporate workforce readiness skills into all 4-H activities.