The Skills-First Movement

The focus of the skills-first movement is to create career opportunities for individuals who do not possess a four-year college degree. By forming a coalition of major companies, this initiative aims to radically change traditional hiring practices and prioritize skills over formal education. This shift is crucial as a significant portion of the American workforce lacks four-year degrees, creating both a gap in employment opportunities and a need for companies to broaden their candidate pool. Highlighting the importance of a skills-first approach can enhance the inclusivity of the hiring process and enable diverse talent to access career-sustaining jobs.