State’s job openings look beyond degrees for best candidates

As part of a growing trend in the private sector, Governor Maura Healey recently filed an executive order eliminating degree requirements for most state government job listings. The order shifts the focus to a “skills-based” approach when selecting candidates for open positions. Healey announced this policy change during a speech to the Associated Industries of Massachusetts, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive approach to hiring practices.

This shift towards skills-based hiring has been gaining momentum in the private sector as well. After the Great Recession of 2008, degree requirements locked out nearly two-thirds of American workers from high-paying jobs that didn’t necessarily require a four-year college education. More recently, prominent companies like Walmart, IBM, and Google have eliminated college degree requirements for many positions, recognizing the value of skills and experience outside of traditional education.

The executive order issued by Governor Healey aligns with this broader trend and is expected to impact over 90% of the state’s upcoming job openings. By focusing on a “full set of competencies” rather than educational attainment, the order aims to broaden access to good-paying jobs and address the challenge of finding qualified workers.

This approach also reflects the changing landscape of education and employment in the United States. With the increasing cost of a traditional four-year college education, high school graduates and other non-traditional candidates are seeking alternative paths into the job market. From community college programs to online certifications, there are numerous ways to acquire valuable skills that employers are seeking.

Furthermore, the shift towards skills-based hiring has implications for those pursuing a four-year college degree. It emphasizes the importance of selecting a concentration that aligns with workforce needs and highlights the value of real-world experience in the hiring process.

Overall, Governor Healey’s executive order signals a shift towards more inclusive and skill-focused hiring practices in both the public and private sector. It opens up a wealth of employment opportunities for a diverse range of candidates and reflects the evolving nature of education and employment in the modern workforce.