Employers are changing their approach to hiring by focusing more on aptitudes and skills and less on credentials. And by connecting individuals to the learning programs that can help them build the skills they need to fill in-demand jobs, SkillUp is helping both workers and employees.
The organization recently released its 2023 Impact Report, showcasing the nearly 1.6 million individuals the nonprofit supported between its launch in July 2020 and June 2023. SkillUp estimates that, as of November 2023, it has connected more than two million workers to career resources, training programs, and careers that will help them discover and develop their unique aptitudes and interests.
A lifelong learning platform that empowers individuals to discover their purpose
SkillUp partners with regional experts across the country who have a deep understanding of their respective job markets, can connect users to local training providers, and can identify the highest-opportunity career paths for workers. SkillUp’s online platform offers users access to:
- More than 1,500 high-quality training programs that can be completed in less than 12 months and for less than $10,000;
- More than 15,000 vetted, open job opportunities that meet SkillUp’s highest job standards and do not require a degree;
- Job tip videos and in-depth information about more than 30 good-wage careers;
- Career coaching resources; and
- Local housing, childcare, and transportation resources.
SkillUp also now offers a catalog devoted exclusively to remote hiring. The resource contains more than 4,000 remote jobs from employers looking to hire for quality roles that do not require a college degree.
Engagement with SkillUp is meant to be career-long. Its resources and partners can help individuals learn new skills throughout their careers, allowing them to self-actualize in their current roles and have confidence that they will be equipped to meaningfully contribute to jobs in the future.
“This is a place upskillers can come back to time and time again to retool, restructure, and dream about new roles as the life of their career twists and turns,” says Twannetta W., who obtained several business and digital marketing certificates from SkillUp Florida training partner Seminole College, where she ultimately completed her associate’s degree.
SkillUp helps Americans unlock potential
SkillUp participants have increased their incomes by more than $473 million, but these workers are seeing benefits that go far beyond better paychecks.
“Being able to train in the time that I did was rigorous, but worth it and it was really crucial for the next launch in my career,” Camille M., whom SkillUp connected to Per Scholas, says. “Now I’m doing something that I’m truly passionate about.”
David O., who participated in SkillUp’s career coaching program, says, “Ever since I began utilizing SkillUp, I have gained confidence in myself and my ability to be employed by the top companies in the country.”