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by CAEL on May 13, 2025
Roderick Wright serves as director of Build Better Careers on CAEL's initiatives team. A certified workforce development professional, Wright joined CAEL in 2024 and provides key support to several other CAEL initiatives that help individuals access rewarding education-employment pathways. His previous role include training systems manager at Work Ready Oklahoma, director of veterans services and targeted populations for the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission with the State of Oklahoma, adjunct professor for workforce development at Rose State College, and trainer for Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma, Inc. Wright holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Southern Nazarene University and a master’s degree in adult education and workforce development from Oklahoma State University.
What's your favorite example of CAELs impact?
As I begin my journey with the Build Better Careers Initiative, I have witnessed the lasting impact on communities where CAEL has connected local employers, workforce boards, and postsecondary institutions to enhance the ecosystem, enabling communities to thrive. The true measure of CAEL’s success in the Build Better Careers Initiative is that, long after our work is completed, the ecosystem we helped build remains sustainable, enabling communities to thrive.
What drew you to CAEL?
After attending my first regional conference with CAEL, I was hooked on the passion I heard from the CAEL staff and the president about enhancing the economic mobility of underserved communities. I, too, have a passion for increasing the quality of life for individuals and families. I also attended the Build Better Careers workshop, where I met Ashley Wilhelm. After hearing about the goals and work of this initiative and speaking with Ashley, I knew I had to be a part of this organization. So when a position became available, I took a chance.
For adult learners, you should not be discouraged or overwhelmed by your current situation. Whether you are unemployed, underemployed, or have been involved in the criminal justice system, you deserve a great quality of life for you and your family. There are numerous excellent resources available, including CAEL and our outstanding partners, that will welcome you and provide the necessary support to help you succeed. For organizations and institutions serving adult learners, please remember to be understanding and give them grace, as we are often helping people in their most challenging times. In addition to grace and understanding, I kindly request that you be versatile and creative in the services you provide. A rigid process or a strict way of doing things only creates barriers and hinders economic prosperity. Additionally, be open to exploring collaborations and partnerships to expand your reach and services. Silos are another determinant to economic prosperity.
What is the last book/movie you read/watched?
The last movie I watched was a sci-horror movie called Event Horizon. I am not a huge fan of the horror genre, but since the movie deals with space, wormholes, and the unknown mysteries of the universe, it intrigues me to the point where I scare myself! Additionally, I enjoy a wide range of 1990s-2000s movies.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I stay active by engaging in activities such as weightlifting at the gym, training in self-defense classes, or helping my daughter train in aikido. Although I do all of those things for my mental health, I always find time to escape in a good movie or series.