In a rapidly changing economy — one where it seems many college graduates are in jobs unrelated to their degrees — do Americans need a traditional four-year university experience? Or do they need access to shorter learning pathways? The answer is: both. Consider the results of a Gallup and Lumina Foundation poll published in April 2026, which found: About … Continued
At the Charles Koch Foundation (CKF), we believe that people closest to a problem are best positioned to solve it. Merit America has been doing exactly that for working adults who have the potential to succeed in a labor market that hasn’t always made it easy to prove their value. And now Fast Company has … Continued
Higher education is facing a pivotal moment. RealClearEducation recently published an op-ed by Charles Koch Foundation (CKF) Vice President for Future of Work Laura Demarse that outlines how colleges and universities can better prepare students for the workforce, spur economic expansion — and ensure their own financial survival. “Not every person needs a college degree … Continued
Fears about artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the economy — and, more importantly, people and their jobs — are widespread. But if society prioritizes human potential (not just a person’s degree or past job) and acknowledges employers’ and employees’ capacity to innovate and improve during times of upheaval, AI presents profound opportunity. Here … Continued
A college degree does not guarantee that a person will earn a family-sustaining paycheck — or that they will find purpose in the work they do. More Americans are embracing this idea. And now, some employers’ talent practices are catching up. The Burning Glass Institute has released an updated Skillability Index, which highlights U.S. employers that … Continued
How will workplaces, hiring strategies, and talent practices evolve in 2026? The human resources research firm i4cp has some ideas. A new report, 2026 Priorities and Predictions, provides a roadmap for talent leaders trying to lead their teams into the future. The topline message? Designing a strategy that puts individual human potential at the center of talent … Continued
As the United States enters its semi-quincentennial year — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — it faces significant upheaval. Rapid technology advancement has changed how Americans think about postsecondary education, work, and career progression while political polarization seems to have deeply divided our society. These challenges are real, but … Continued
As a child growing up in Raleigh, North Carolina Elizabeth “Ellie” Borowiak wanted to be a doctor. Even in elementary school, she routinely talked to her parents about that ambition. Then as a high school sophomore, she took a government class that touched on constitutional law. After school that day, she asked her parents if … Continued
Every person desires meaning and purpose. But can fostering an individual’s sense of purpose at work be a win-win for that person and their employer? A new Gallup report says the answer is yes — there is mutual benefit when businesses help their workers identify what gives them meaning in their lives. Why? Because when employees find purpose in their work, … Continued
Expanding non-degree pathways to skills and aptitude development will unlock the potential of every human being, especially those from underserved groups or communities. As The Associated Press recently reported, through its Global Innovation Challenge, Citi Foundation will contribute $25 million to 50 groups across the globe that are working to provide digital skills, technical training, and career … Continued
