Paul’s Perspective:
As workforce needs rapidly evolve, questioning the college ROI is not just practical—it’s smart business. Leaders should take note: investing in skills-based education and talent development can create a more agile, effective organization.
Key Points in Article:
- The average cost of a four-year college degree in the U.S. has risen over 25% in the past decade.
- Sixty-eight percent of Gen Z respondents reported being open to alternatives to a traditional four-year college.
- Trade jobs in fields like electrical work, HVAC, and welding can surpass $75,000 annually with less debt than a college degree.
- Employers increasingly value job-specific skills over generalized degrees, especially in high-demand technical sectors.
Strategic Actions:
- Evaluate the costs and long-term value of traditional college paths versus vocational programs.
- Assess internal hiring practices to emphasize skills and certifications over degrees where appropriate.
- Explore partnerships with trade schools for workforce development.
- Offer support or incentives for employees to pursue technical training relevant to business operations.
Dive deeper > Full Story:
The Bottom Line:
- Rising college costs and uncertain job prospects are causing Gen Z to question traditional degrees.
- Vocational and trade programs offer practical skills and pathways to stable, well-paying careers.
Ready to Explore More?
We work collaboratively to align your workforce strategy with emerging talent trends, helping you navigate practical alternatives to traditional hiring and development models. Reach out to explore how our perspective can support your growth.