Cisive’s work to utilize and issue digital credentials is supported by the Velocity Network, a blockchain-based utility layer governed by member organizations that enables secure, portable storage and sharing of digital credentials.

In this interview, Dr. Penny Smith-Mickey shares the story behind Mickey’s Popcorn, its commitment to workforce development, and how the company scaled into a growing enterprise leveraging apprenticeships. As a small business, Mickey’s Popcorn is a shining example of how employers can use skills-based practices to drive value for their business and employees.

Evidence of skills proficiency, supported in ways that are fraud-proof and trustworthy, are foundational to the long-term success and scaling of Skills First talent management practices. And validated skills are what employers want and need.

The question is not “Should SMBs invest in upskilling?” They must for their own continued competitiveness, for the good of their employees, and for the good of our society and economy. The question is “How should SMBs invest in upskilling?”