Employees in nondegree pathways leading toward "upskilling" feel like they are workforce ready and receive the necessary skills needed for success. However, many people still are not aware of non-degree options for improvement, advancement and continuing education. The following article discusses this lack of awareness and how employees could attract workers and improve job outcomes through on the job training. https://www.highereddive.com/news/nondegree-upskilling-options/697335/

A recent higher ed article (link) has indicated that apprenticeship opportunities could provide a key method of reducing the worker shortage experienced by many industries. Apprenticeships, along with other alternative career pathways such as academic Certificates, non-credit credentialing, and on-the-job upskilling are possible solutions to this shortage. Extension in many states is positioned to help support these efforts by offering educational content or training opportunities. Extension...

Thank you for sharing this insightful article. I agree that nondegree upskilling is a valuable and flexible way to enhance one's skills and career prospects, especially in the changing and competitive labor market. However, I also recognize the challenges and barriers that prevent many people from pursuing or completing upskilling programs, such as lack of awareness, cost, time, and quality. I think that Extension can play a vital role in bridging the gap between employers and workers, and...