In 2018, 35% of the U.S. population had at least four years of college education — the most in history. But while we might have the most educated population ever, these degrees aren’t necessarily giving people the practical work skills they need.
Why Even New Grads Need to Reskill for the Future
College degree programs are no longer keeping pace with how fast things are changing in the workforce. Students are currently being prepared for jobs that no longer exist, and many don’t have the right skills for the job they want. Skills gaps are prevalent and widening. The good news is that new graduates are well-qualified to bridge their own skill gaps. The way this cohort will solve the skills dilemma is through smart, gentle, iterative skills acquisition, sensibly and loosely guided by need. Those new to the workforce can access the near-infinite resources available to them online, as well as the technologies (consumer software and apps) to filter them. Reskilling and continuously building skills throughout a career are important to bring about lateral (and indeed vertical) career transitions for all ages, but will be particularly vital for this new graduate demographic as they strive to keep up with the skills and work of the future.