Bridgette Gray on gained skills leading to good jobs

Thought leaders share ideas with WorkingNation Overheard at SXSW EDU 2023
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“You do not need a bachelor’s degree to get a really well-paid job. What you need are valid skills and you can earn those skills through alternative routes,” according to Bridgette Gray, chief customer officer, Opportunity@Work.

WorkingNation sat down with Gray at SXSW EDU 2023 in Austin.

Gray says STARs – people who are Skilled Through Alternative Routes – need to be able to signal to employers they are ready to work as a result of their experiences and skills.

She notes some alternative routes include certification programs, boot camps, and military service.

“If you are an employer, it is really important to align with educational organizations, not just a four-year university. You have to align with community colleges. You have to align with boot camps. You have to align with workforce training organizations because they are the ones that are training the talent that you need,” says Gray.

Learn more about Opportunity@Work.