Deeneaus Polk currently works at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) as a German Chancellor Fellow. From November 2015 until December 2016, his work focuses on identifying best VET practices to transfer to Mississippi.
iMOVE: Please give us some information on your personal and professional background.
Deeneaus Polk: I am from Pascagoula, which is a small town in Mississippi. I received degrees from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and the University of Mississippi. I was initially focused on a diplomatic career, and studied International Studies and German. I have since become very interested in economic and workforce development, and am particularly keen on connecting non-traditional international actors together in order to create innovative solutions for various public policy challenges.
My previous institution was the Mississippi Economic Policy Center (now Hope Policy Institute) where I served as a Policy Analyst. I focused on public policy challenges facing low-income groups primarily within secondary and higher education. I also became involved in local politics by serving on several electoral campaigns. I also did some work on economic development in Mississippi, primarily along researching the incentives required to bring skilled jobs to a state.
iMOVE: What was your motivation to come to Germany and the BIBB?
Deeneaus Polk: I have been exposed to the German vocational education and training system since I studied abroad here at the age of sixteen. After serving as a Fulbright Scholar at a vocational school in Frankfurt, I began the process of trying to piece together why Germany's dual training system is so strong. After this experience, I ventured back to Mississippi and became interested in trying to implement some of the vocational education methods I had encountered in Germany. That experience illustrated just how difficult system change can be, and I have since learned that the best way to bring about reform is via a bottom-up approach that allows one to customize solutions to unique situations.
iMOVE: How would you describe your experiences so far?
Deeneaus Polk: BIBB has provided me with a plethora of knowledge and expertise that I would not be able to receive elsewhere. I have learned much about the inner workings of Germany's VET system, while also learning how BIBB is on the forefront of facing the challenges of the future. Further, I have been able to transfer back some of what I have learned to Mississippi. Learning about the Vocational Orientation Programme of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, for instance, has given me a tangible way to strengthen one of the programs I am connected to in my home state. I still have much to learn, but am very grateful for my experiences thus far.
