Helping Others Become Next Ready Tara Shepherd on Adult Education, Workforce Development, and Changing Lives

Education has the power to change a life, and sometimes an entire family’s future. In this episode of Women in the Driver Seat, we sit down with Tara Shepherd, Director of Adult Education at Apollo Career Center, to discuss workforce development, lifelong learning, and the transformational impact of career and technical education.

Tara’s journey at Apollo began more than two decades ago as a part time evening instructor teaching in the adult medical programs while working at the hospital during the day. What started as a teaching opportunity quickly became a calling when she witnessed firsthand how adult learners could immediately apply new skills and create better opportunities for themselves and their families. Over the years, she advanced through leadership roles before becoming Director of Adult Education, helping connect students, employers, and workforce needs throughout the region.

One story continues to inspire her today. Early in her career, Tara attended a nursing graduation where a young child proudly shouted “Go Mom!” as her mother crossed the stage. The student had earned her GED before completing her nursing education, creating a new path forward for her family. For Tara, that moment reinforced the true purpose of education: helping people become ready for whatever comes next in life.

Throughout the conversation, Tara explains Apollo’s vision of helping students become “next ready.” Whether someone is pursuing a new career, building confidence through a short term credential, or preparing for additional education, Apollo focuses on meeting learners where they are and helping them reach their goals. She emphasizes that education is not just about training. It is about transformation.

Tara also discusses Apollo’s role in workforce development across Northwest Ohio. By working closely with local employers, Apollo helps identify workforce needs and develop programs that address critical shortages. One example is the creation of a four year electrical apprenticeship program after local industry leaders expressed concerns about future workforce gaps. What began as a conversation evolved into a successful pathway preparing the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

As a leader, Tara encourages others, especially women, to lean into uncomfortable spaces rather than avoid them. She believes growth often happens when people step into uncertainty, seek mentors, ask questions, and trust their abilities. Her advice is simple but powerful: when you see a gap, lean into it because you may be exactly who is needed to fill it.

This conversation is a reminder that education creates opportunity, workforce development strengthens communities, and one person’s success can inspire generations to follow.

👉 Watch now to hear how Tara Shepherd and Apollo Career Center are helping students become next ready and transforming lives through education and workforce development.