Now’s the perfect time to shift focus from traditional education to skill-based learning. With more schools offering CTE (Career and Technical Education) and the government investing in work readiness programs, preparing for the workforce has never been more accessible.
College isn’t the only path to success anymore. Employers are starting to focus less on degrees and more on whether you can actually do the job. That means jobs for high school graduates are becoming more attainable, especially when they involve technical, digital or hands-on abilities.
Skills-based learning through CTE programs can help students gain practical experience in areas like IT, healthcare, manufacturing and design. These skills translate directly to work ready jobs and give young adults a competitive edge right out of school. If you’re wondering how to get your first job, learning a skill is often the fastest route.
Schools across the country are investing in career and technical education to ensure students are truly preparing for the workforce. These programs are designed to help you discover what you’re good at, understand what jobs match those skills and build a clear path to employment.
Whether it’s through vocational training, certifications or internships, CTE programs are increasingly becoming the foundation for finding jobs after high school. And they often come with less debt and more flexibility than a traditional four-year degree.
As the job market continues to evolve, having the right skills means access to opportunity. The talent development marketplace connects people with the jobs they qualify for based on ability, not academic history. This shift levels the playing field for those who are ready to work but may not have a college degree.
For jobs for recent college grads and young adults just starting out, this means finding a meaningful career path is easier and faster — especially when paired with the right support system and guidance tools.
With all the changes in how people get hired, it’s important to take the right steps to make yourself competitive in the new economy. pepelwerk helps students and parents plan the path to success with a personalized platform that matches you to jobs, learning programs and events based on your goals.
Here’s how to get started:
With a monthly membership, you’ll get matched to jobs and learning programs that fit your future. For a full-year commitment, the preferred membership includes coaching sessions, assessments and priority matching to help you move even faster toward your goals.