The transformative power of business engagement in education
Unlock the full potential of industry certifications
In the dynamic landscape of education and workforce development, industry certifications have emerged as a powerful tool for not just validating students' skills and knowledge but also for instilling confidence.?
A survey by American Student Assistance and Jobs for the Future (JFF) found that 70% of “pathway youth” —those who pursued or are pursuing non-degree postsecondary opportunities—have high confidence in their post-high school plans, while 32% of their “non-pathway” counterparts reported lacking confidence.
I believe in the power of Career and Technical Education (CTE) to aid in confidence-building through bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world skills. The impact is magnified when a student can walk away from a course with a certification. External validation that they have this knowledge and these skills.
However, the true impact of these certifications extends far beyond individual achievements. It lies in the symbiotic relationship between businesses and educational institutions—a relationship that, when nurtured early and consistently, has the potential to reshape the future of our workforce.
Why industry certifications matter
We know that industry certifications for students go beyond just adding a line to their resume. They are a gateway to tangible benefits that can significantly impact their employability, earning potential, and career advancement.
Research consistently shows that certified individuals are more likely to be hired and have higher earning potential compared to their non-certified counterparts—particularly for individuals who are unable to pursue a postsecondary pathway. A Gallup study, for one, found that 81% of individuals with a certification are employed compared to 68% of those who don’t hold a certification.
I believe that’s because certifications validate the skills and knowledge you acquire, providing employers with a clear understanding of your capabilities. When you bring this practice into the classroom, it not only makes students more attractive candidates but also increases their chances of landing well-paying jobs.
But why should businesses care?
Certifications are a means to both indicate what is important to you as a business and tell educators the skills and learning you want to see happen in the classroom. At YouScience , our engagement with industry and education leaders as part of our ongoing exam development and validation process is critical and ensures that our certifications are not only relevant but also meet the evolving needs of the workforce.
By aligning certifications with industry standards and trends, we empower students to enter the workforce with skills that are in high demand, making them valuable assets to businesses. This alignment not only benefits students in their career journeys but also ensures that businesses have access to a skilled and competent workforce that drives innovation and growth.
And, because industry certifications bridge the gap between education and industry, and can be earned in increments that prove learning along a longer education continuum, certifications provide students and businesses a more accessible and effective way of connecting and performing from day one.
The ripple effect of early business engagement
Business engagement is not just about filling immediate job openings; it's about cultivating a talent pipeline that sustains your organization's growth and competitiveness in the long term. According to a YouScience survey, 86% of employers believe that a lack of awareness of job opportunities in their industry contributes to their challenge in hiring entry-level workers.
The impending retirement of the Baby Boomer generation by 2030 signals a seismic shift in the labor market. While some Boomers may extend their careers, the overall trend points towards a substantial exit from the workforce. This demographic shift, coupled with the rise of Gen Z, who are poised to outnumber Baby Boomers in the workforce next year, emphasizes the critical need for businesses to adapt and engage early with emerging talent.
Through early engagement, businesses can create a ripple effect that reverberates across various aspects of the economy:
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By recognizing the short and long-term benefits of early engagement with education and talent development, businesses can proactively shape their future success while contributing positively to the growth and prosperity of society as a whole.
What challenges and opportunities exist
While the benefits of early business engagement with education and talent development are clear, navigating this terrain comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for maximizing the impact of such initiatives.
Limitations on engagement:
Engaging with students under the age of 18 often faces legal and ethical considerations. Regulations regarding minors' involvement in certain industries or activities, coupled with privacy concerns, can limit direct engagement opportunities. However, creative approaches such as mentorship programs, virtual experiences, and educational partnerships can bridge this gap while complying with legal requirements.
Resource constraints and regulatory hurdles:
Businesses may encounter resource constraints and regulatory hurdles when implementing early engagement strategies. Lack of funding, time, and expertise can hinder initiatives. Moreover, navigating complex regulatory frameworks and educational policies requires careful planning and collaboration. Overcoming these challenges involves strategic resource allocation, leveraging partnerships with educational institutions and industry associations, and advocating for supportive policies.
Varying levels of engagement:
Not all businesses engage with education and talent development at the same level. Some may have robust programs in place, while others may be in the early stages of exploration. Varying levels of engagement can lead to disparities in outcomes and impact. However, this diversity also presents opportunities for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and collective learning within industries and communities.
Navigating these challenges and seizing opportunities requires a strategic approach that considers:
By addressing these challenges proactively and leveraging emerging opportunities, businesses can navigate the complexities of early engagement with education and talent development, driving positive outcomes for themselves, students, and society at large.
The path forward
As we recognize the transformative potential of industry certifications and CTE, it's crucial for businesses to actively engage with educational institutions. By offering internships, mentorship programs, and real-world experiences, businesses not only contribute to students' confidence and readiness for the workforce but also gain access to a pool of skilled talent aligned with their industry needs.?
YouScience stands ready to be your partner in education engagement by providing solutions to help you connect with emerging talent searching for relevant career information and guidance to occupations across all industries.?
Together, let's cultivate a culture of collaboration and innovation that empowers students and propels businesses toward success in our rapidly evolving economy.