A recent infographic released by the Council of Post-Secondary Education In Kentucky indicates that the majority of Generation Z feels pressured to pursue a traditional four-year degree and would rather explore other educational options that allow them to learn skills over a lifetime rather than all at once. For those staff and faculty in traditional higher education, this begs the question as to the role that these individuals should have in supporting and developing these alternatives. For...

We are currently witnessing a transformative era, often referred to as the “AI Revolution”. This revolution is characterized by the rapid integration of a relatively new technology, generative AI, into diverse fields such as art, education, and information dissemination. For both current job seekers and those preparing for future careers, mastering the use of generative AI has become an essential skill. This mastery extends beyond merely knowing how to request information. It also involves...

How is the Cooperative Extension Service supporting workforce development in the trades industry in your state? A recent article from the Wall Street Journal discuses the trend of Gen Z worker entering trades in increasing numbers. New technologies, changing perceptions of "blue-collar" careers, and the rising cost of college tuition are just few of the things driving this trend. There is a significant shortage of skilled workers in trades such as plumbing, electric, and carpentry. This...

Are today's high school graduates the "Microcredential Generation"? This article explores why many are pursuing this pathway to a career over more traditional post secondary education. Associated image is from Inside Higher Education and taken from the article website.