WorkingNation

For decades, job requirements have centered around college degrees, overlooking millions of skilled workers who’ve gained their expertise through experience, training, or alternative pathways. But that’s changing. More companies and government positions are shifting to skills-first hiring, opening doors to higher-wage jobs for overlooked talent. 🎧 In this episode of Work in Progress, we explore how this movement is reshaping hiring, expanding access to opportunity, and helping organizations tap into a more diverse and capable workforce. Opportunity@Work

WorkingNation is heading to #SXSWEDU 2025 to make the economic case for workforce access for immigrants. The data is clear: Immigrants generate $1.6 trillion in economic activity and $579 billion in taxes, yet many remain stuck in low-wage jobs with limited opportunities for advancement. How can we remove barriers and create true economic mobility? Join us for "Making the Economic Case for Workforce Access for Immigrants" at SXSW EDU Crossover Day as we explore the real impact of immigration on our workforce and economy. 📅 March 6, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM CT 📍 Austin Convention Center, Room 9C 🔗 Add to your SXSW schedule: https://lnkd.in/g_bpg7tg Will we see you there?

AI isn't just helping people at work; it's helping them find work. Tools like Celeste, an AI career coach from Skills Nation are guiding job seekers to discover their skills, identify career paths, and match with in-demand roles. ➡️ With AI-driven insights, job seekers can pinpoint their strengths, explore new industries, and get personalized career guidance—all in their back pocket. But is AI enough, or do human advisors still play a crucial role? Experts weigh in on how AI is reshaping the job search landscape: 🔗 Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gJW3AYZy

The commercial fishing industry is at a turning point. 🎣 As veteran fishermen retire, the demand for skilled, safety-trained crews has never been higher. But the reality? Many captains simply can’t find workers to fill these critical roles. ➡️ Thats why the Commercial Fisheries Center of Rhode Island created a first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program to help bridge the gap. By combining classroom training with real-world experience, it’s equipping a new generation with the skills—and resilience—needed to succeed in one of the toughest jobs out there. With workforce shortages impacting industries nationwide, could apprenticeships like this be the key to closing the skills gap? Rhode Island Governor's Workforce Board

Immigrants aren’t just part of the workforce—they’re a driving force behind it. So what happens when we break down their barriers to workforce access? 🎧 In the latest episode of WorkingNation’s podcast, we explore the economic impact of immigration, the misconceptions that persist, and what it all means for the future of work. At SXSW EDU, we'll join EnGen and Upwardly Global to make the case for workforce access for immigrants. 📅 March 6, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM CT 📍 Austin Convention Center, Room 9C

The U.S. is facing a labor shortage crisis, and if we don’t act now, key industries like healthcare, skilled trades, and manufacturing will struggle to keep up. This isn’t a short-term issue. It’s a structural shift. - The U.S. is projected to be 6 million workers short by 2032 - Baby boomer retirements are accelerating - Prime-age labor force participation is declining - Fewer young workers are entering critical industries We can’t afford to wait for the labor market to fix itself. It’s time to rethink how we train, recruit, and retain talent. ✅ Invest in workforce development – Upskilling and reskilling need to be widely accessible, not an afterthought. ✅ Rethink immigration policies – Since 2019, foreign-born workers have accounted for 102% of U.S. labor force growth. They are essential to our economy. ✅ Adapt to technology, not fear it – AI and automation won’t replace most jobs, but they will change them. Workers need the skills to keep up. ✅ Tap into hidden talent pools – More opportunities for returning citizens, caregivers re-entering the workforce, and those left out of traditional hiring pathways. The labor market is shifting, and we need real solutions to ensure industries can find the talent they need. What steps do you think will make the biggest impact? What do you think is the most urgent workforce challenge right now? 👇

The job market favors STEM graduates early on—but what happens over time? Research suggests that “stealth majors” like philosophy, public policy, and sociology may be more valuable than they seem. As AI and automation reshape industries, skills like critical thinking, adaptability, and ethical reasoning could prove just as crucial as technical expertise. ➡️ Employers aren’t just looking for engineers who can code—they want professionals who understand ethics, decision-making, and complex systems in an evolving world. Could broad, transferable skills become the biggest asset in the future of work? Here’s what experts are saying:

AI skills aren’t optional anymore—they’re essential. If you’re in the workforce today, it’s not just about knowing AI exists—it’s about knowing how to use it to enhance your work. Whether you’re in marketing, finance, healthcare, or tech, understanding and applying AI can set you apart. 🎧 In this episode of Work in Progress, we break down what this shift means for job seekers, employees, and businesses—and how you can stay ahead.

💼 What truly matters most when you're trying to land a job? With AI, automation, and new industries emerging, traditional career paths are shifting. Employers say they value skills, but are degrees still the key to success? Drop your vote & tell us why in the comments! 👇

The demand for data analytics and data science careers is growing fast. So how can we ensure more students from underrepresented backgrounds have access to these opportunities? Howard University, The National Education Equity Lab, and Google are working to bridge the gap by providing free college courses and industry certificates to Title I high school students. With only 4% of data scientists being Black, initiatives like this are critical in expanding access to high-paying, in-demand careers. ➡️ Read more about how the program is making an impact: https://lnkd.in/gWv9jUaW