Skills over degrees crucial for future of work — report
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — A new report released by OneTen, a coalition advocating for the employment of Black talent without four-year degrees, highlighted the importance of valuing skills over traditional degrees for the evolving job market and economic growth.
In its report titled Empowering the Future Workforce, OneTen revealed that many Black adults have valuable skills in demand. However, 79% of jobs paying $60,000 or more still require four-year degrees.
Additionally, recruiters often exclude 76% of Black adults over 25 for not having a college education. OneTen believes about four million jobs could shift their credential requirements to capitalize on this skilled demographic.
The report explained that skills-based hiring diversifies candidate pools, which fuels innovation and drives business performance. Embracing diverse perspectives and experiences ensures companies can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing business landscape.
OneTen CEO Debbie Dyson added that a skills-based approach offers jobs and paves the way for wealth-building, ensuring the “American dream” is within reach for many sidelined due to systemic barriers.
In response to the coalition’s challenge, major firms like Cisco, Deloitte, and Delta Air Lines, in partnership with OneTen, have stepped up their efforts to attract and retain Black professionals.
