Today we’d like to introduce you to Liz Confiliano.
Hi Liz, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
North Texas Institute for Career Development was created as an extension of Goodwill North Central Texas’ mission to remove barriers to employment and help individuals build sustainable careers. Since 1949, Goodwill North Central Texas has provided job training, education and employment services across North Central Texas, and we recognized a growing need for accessible workforce development programs that directly connect people to in-demand careers.
NTI was developed to meet that need by offering industry-recognized training and certifications, hands-on learning and supportive services that help people gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Today, the program continues to grow as we work with employers, community partners and participants to create pathways to long-term career opportunities and economic mobility.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many organizations focused on workforce development, there have definitely been challenges along the way. One of the biggest has been adapting to the rapidly changing workforce landscape and ensuring our programs stay aligned with employer needs and industry trends.
Many of the individuals we serve are balancing significant barriers, whether that’s transportation, financial hardship, lack of access to technology, disabilities or limited work experience. Creating programs that are flexible, supportive and truly accessible takes constant collaboration and innovation.
At the same time, those challenges are what make the work so meaningful. Seeing participants gain confidence, complete training and move into careers that can change the trajectory of their lives is incredibly rewarding and continues to drive our mission forward.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about North Texas Institute for Career Development?
North Texas Institute for Career Development focuses on providing career training and workforce development opportunities that help individuals build skills for today’s job market. As part of Goodwill North Central Texas, our goal is not just employment, but helping people find long-term career pathways that lead to stability and independence.
We offer training programs in several high-demand industries, including Forklift Certification, Medical Front Office Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, CompTIA A+, Network+ and CDL training. These programs are designed to equip participants with practical, industry-recognized skills that can lead directly to employment opportunities.
What sets us apart is the combination of hands-on training, individualized support and accessibility. We work to meet people where they are, whether they’re entering the workforce for the first time, changing careers or overcoming barriers to employment. In addition to technical training, we focus on confidence-building, soft skills and ongoing support that help participants succeed beyond the classroom.
One thing we’re especially proud of is the impact we’ve been able to make in our community by creating opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise have access to affordable career training. Every success story represents someone gaining independence, confidence and a new future, and that’s really at the heart of everything we do.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Workforce development and career training are going to become even more important over the next decade as technology continues to evolve and industries adapt to changing workforce demands. We’re seeing a major shift toward skills-based hiring, digital literacy and short-term credentialing programs that can quickly prepare individuals for high-demand careers.
We’re intentionally focused on programs in growing industries like healthcare, technology, logistics and transportation, where there is strong demand for skilled workers.
There’s also a growing recognition that workforce development has to be holistic. Employers and training providers are increasingly understanding that supporting the whole person, through mentorship, accessibility, wraparound services and career coaching is critical to long-term success.
We also expect partnerships between nonprofits, educational institutions and employers to continue expanding. Organizations like North Texas Institute for Career Development will play an important role in helping bridge workforce gaps while creating more equitable access to career opportunities for individuals across our communities.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.northtexasinstitute.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodwillnct
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodwillNCT
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodwillnct
- Twitter: @goodwillnct
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@goodwillnct
- Other: https://www.goodwillnct.org/nti
