My Path to Success: Embracing Advanced Skills for New Collar Jobs

Last Updated on January 1, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: The Rise of New Collar Jobs: Necessity for Skills-Based Hiring in the High-Tech Industry

In the fast-paced world of technology, the disruption to workers losing jobs in the high-tech industry may be significant. However, a silver lining emerges as the new job market demands a shift towards skills-based hiring, providing hope for Americans without four-year college degrees.

One prominent advocate of this shift is Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM, who coined the term “new collar” to emphasize the necessity of skills-based hiring. Rometty believes that the outdated criteria requiring college degrees has hindered the filling of critical cybersecurity jobs at IBM and elsewhere.

Recognizing the need for change, employers are now increasingly turning to skills-based filters on platforms like LinkedIn to find suitable candidates. LinkedIn, with its massive user base of 155 million workers without traditional degrees, has become a valuable tool for connecting employers with qualified individuals.

This paradigm shift is not only limited to the high-tech industry. The rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is paving the way for a new wave of skilled workers. Just as green collar jobs emerged in response to the eco-friendly movement, the EV industry will require individuals proficient in electric vehicle manufacturing and maintenance.

The term “new collar” encapsulates the urgency for companies to adopt innovative hiring practices. It acts as a catalyst for businesses to recognize the potential in workers who possess the necessary skills, but lack traditional degrees. By focusing on skills rather than degrees, companies can tap into a wider pool of talent, thus fostering a more inclusive workforce.

While the shift towards skills-based hiring holds promise, it also highlights the need for training programs aimed at equipping individuals with the required skills. Americans without four-year college degrees can benefit from such training initiatives, creating a pathway for them to secure new collar jobs in the transforming job market.

In conclusion, the disruption faced by workers losing jobs in the high-tech industry calls for a fresh perspective on hiring practices. Embracing skills-based hiring, as advocated by Ginni Rometty, offers an opportunity for individuals without traditional degrees to thrive in the evolving job market. Employers must adapt and recognize the value of skills, leading to a more diversified workforce that is prepared to meet the demands of emerging industries like electric vehicles.