Transforming Education-to-Career Pathways: Education at Work President Jane Swift Featured at the 2025 ASU+GSV Summit
Transforming Education-to-Career Pathways Education at Work President Jane Swift Featured at the 2025 ASU+GSV Summit The 2025 ASU+GSV Summit, held April 6–9 in San Diego, gathered the most innovative leaders from education, business, and government to explore the future of learning and work. Education at Work’s president, Jane Swift, contributed her perspective and voice to two dynamic panels addressing some of the most pressing issues in education-to-career navigation and workforce development. Recalculating Routes… The State of Education to Career Navigation In this powerful session moderated by Julie Lammers of American Student Assistance, Jane joined leaders from ECMC, Kuder, and the Schultz Family Foundation to spotlight solutions that help students discover and pursue rewarding careers—whether through traditional degrees or alternative pathways like work-based learning and credentials. Jane shared how Education at Work’s unique model integrates paid, meaningful employment with guided skill development and mentorship. As she described, “When students in our Intuit program assist real customers during tax season, they aren’t just learning technical skills—they’re gaining confidence, building cultural capital, and navigating real workplace dynamics. That’s the kind of preparation that sticks.” She emphasized that career navigation isn’t just about coursework—it’s also about building social and professional networks, understanding workplace culture, and gaining the kind of experience that makes students stand out. “A student scanning a QR code to walk through a tax filing process isn’t just learning software,” she said. “They’re learning to explain, guide, and build trust—all essential, transferable skills.” The conversation underscored students’ challenges navigating over 1 million credentials from 60,000 providers and the growing disconnect between degrees and perceived readiness. With 81% of employers now believing that skills matter more than degrees, the panelists called for multi-sector collaboration, greater transparency, and scalable tools that help students, families, and employers evaluate and understand all post-secondary options. Forming a More Perfect Union… A Bipartisan Conversation During Tuesday’s Lightning X Lunch, Jane joined an extraordinary panel of public officials and education leaders, including former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, former Delaware Governor Jack Markell, and state education secretaries Katie Jenner and Aimee Guidera, for a bipartisan conversation on the power of unity in transforming education and workforce development. Moderated by Ben Wallerstein of Whiteboard Advisors, the conversation was a rare and refreshing reminder that bridging divides is possible—and necessary—when preparing young people for meaningful careers. Jane offered a compelling perspective from the nonprofit and employer-partnered side, reinforcing that real change becomes possible when industry, government, and education align. She stressed the importance of equity, access, and relevance and how collaborative work-based learning programs like those offered by Education at Work can serve as scalable, inclusive models for student success. Why It Matters These two panels showcased what Jane—and Education at Work—stand for: breaking down silos, building social capital, and helping students take the most direct and supportive route from college to career. At a time when traditional education pathways are under scrutiny, E@W is proving that innovative, hands-on, and human-centered models can offer real solutions that meet the needs of both students and employers. Let’s keep the conversation going. Follow us on our socials to hear more stories from our students, see how we’re shaping the future of work, and contact us to explore ways to partner with us. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Rethinking Student Employment: Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion
Rethinking Student Employment Key Takeaways from SXSW EDU Panel Discussion Discover key insights from SXSW EDU’s panel on rethinking student employment and how scalable work-based learning models, like Education at Work, are reshaping the college-to-career journey. Learn how innovative partnerships are breaking barriers and preparing students for career success. At this year’s SXSW EDU, an annual event showcasing innovation in education, the conversation around work-based learning took center stage during a dynamic panel discussion titled “Learning While Earning: Rethinking Student Employment.” Moderated by Iris Palmer, Director of Community Colleges at New America, the panel featured expert insights from: Jane Swift, President of Education at Work Les O’Reilly, Director of Expert Sourcing Strategy & Partnerships, Intuit Louie Rodriguez, J.D., Vice Provost for Professional Development, Engagement, and Strategic Initiatives, University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Together, they explored how new student employment models can disrupt broken college-to-career systems and expand access to meaningful work experience for more college students. Why Work-Based Learning is Critical For many college students, working while studying is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Forty percent of full-time undergraduates are employed, working between 20 and 34 hours a week. First-generation college students face more significant challenges, often juggling longer work hours with fewer opportunities to secure career-boosting internships. Yet, internships remain a crucial stepping stone for students’ career success. Research from Strada Education Foundation and Handshake reveals that students overwhelmingly want internships, but barriers like time, finances, and accessibility prevent many from participating. Competition for these coveted opportunities is increasing– internship postings on Handshake declined by 15% between January 2023 and January 2025, making it even harder for students to gain relevant experience. Meanwhile, businesses are also struggling. Six in ten hiring managers report gaps in new grads’ skills, and many have fired Gen Z workers in the past year due to a lack of job readiness. So, how can we bridge the divide? The Education at Work Solution: A Scalable Model for Work-Based Learning During the panel discussion, Jane Swift highlighted how Education at Work (E@W) redefines student employment by connecting college students with flexible, paid roles at Fortune 500 companies. This enables them to earn a paycheck, gain durable and technical skills, and graduate with real-world work experience—all without sacrificing their education. Unlike traditional on-campus jobs or unpaid internships, E@W partners directly with universities and businesses to create work opportunities that integrate with students’ academic schedules while providing industry-aligned skills training. “This is about removing barriers for students,” Jane explained. “We need solutions that work for students who are already balancing work and school and also meet businesses’ needs for talent development.” How Can Work-Based Learning Be Scaled? How to scale work-based learning beyond pilot programs and isolated partnerships was a key topic of discussion, and the panelists explored several policy solutions at both the state and federal levels, including: ✔ Expanding federal work-study eligibility to support more off-campus, career-relevant employment opportunities✔ Incentivizing employer partnerships to increase paid work-based learning programs✔ Investing in intermediary organizations like Education at Work, which help facilitate scalable solutions for students and employers Looking Ahead The conversation at SXSW EDU emphasized that the current student employment model isn’t working for most students or businesses seeking skilled talent. New approaches, like Education at Work’s model, demonstrate that earning while learning doesn’t have to be a choice between a paycheck and a career path—it’s a way to achieve both. As the workforce continues to evolve, the need for scalable and accessible work-based learning programs has never been greater. We’d love to connect if you’re a university, employer, or policymaker looking to help students bridge the gap between education and career success. Contact Us to learn more about how Education at Work is shaping the future of student employment. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways
10 Practical Tips for Effectively Brainstorming Career Pathways Navigating the journey from college to career can feel overwhelming for students trying to balance their studies, passions, and work experience. The pressure to “figure it all out” often leads to uncertainty about which career paths best align with their goals and skills. However, brainstorming potential career pathways doesn’t have to be daunting—it can be an exciting process of self-discovery and strategic planning. In this article, we’ll share practical tips to help students explore opportunities that connect their academic pursuits, personal interests, and work experience, paving the way for a fulfilling professional future. Here are 10 practical tips students can follow to brainstorm and discover viable career pathways: 1. Reflect on Your Interests and Passions Take time to think about what excites you. What subjects, hobbies, or activities make you feel energized? Your passions often provide clues about the types of careers that would feel meaningful and enjoyable. 2. Assess Your Strengths and Skills Identify your unique abilities—both technical and soft skills. Are you great at problem-solving, public speaking, or working with technology? Knowing your strengths helps you focus on careers where you can excel. 3. Explore How Your Major Aligns with Careers Research the typical career paths associated with your major. Talk to professors, academic advisors, or alumni to understand how others with your academic background have launched their careers. Explore alternative career options by leveraging ChatGPT with prompts like “Give me a list of 10 outside-the-box career ideas for accounting majors.” 4. Leverage Your Work and Volunteer Experience Reflect on your part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer roles. What tasks did you enjoy the most? What skills did you develop? These experiences can point to industries or roles that align with your interests and abilities. 5. Consider Lifestyle and Values Think about the type of life you envision. Do you prefer a fast-paced environment or a flexible schedule? Are you drawn to roles with a strong social impact? Matching your values with your career goals helps ensure long-term satisfaction. 6. Conduct Informational Interviews Reach out to professionals in fields you’re interested in and ask about their career journeys, challenges, and day-to-day work. This firsthand insight can help determine if a particular path resonates with you. 7. Utilize your University Career Center Most universities offer vast career resources to students and alumni, such as career and skill assessments, resume-building tools, interview preparation, and even career coaching appointments. Explore your school’s career center website or schedule a career counselor. 8. Attend Career Events and Job Fairs Take advantage of career fairs, industry conferences, and networking events. These provide opportunities to learn about different industries, meet potential employers, and discover roles you may not have considered. 9. Experiment Through Internships or Freelance Work Test the waters in different fields by taking on internships, part-time work, or freelance projects. Real-world experience can help you decide what you enjoy (and what you don’t). 10. Create a Vision and Set Goals Envision where you want to be in five or ten years. Set small, achievable goals to help you move toward that vision, whether it’s gaining new skills, exploring industries, or building a professional network. Conclusion Finding the right career path starts with self-reflection, exploration, and real-world experience. Applying the tips in this article and seeking opportunities to grow, you can confidently take steps toward a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and goals. Education at Work is here to help you on that journey. Our student employment opportunities offer more than just a job—they provide a chance to develop the skills and connections that will set you apart in the workforce. Learn more about our current job openings and how we can support you in building your future. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Face Time: The Unmatched Power of In-Person Networking for College Students in the Digital Age
Face Time: The Unmatched Power of In-Person Networking for College Students in the Digital Age In today’s highly digital age, where LinkedIn profiles and virtual meetings dominate professional interactions, in-person networking remains an invaluable tool for college students in building authentic relationships. While digital platforms offer convenience, they often lack the depth and personal connection that in-person interactions provide. The university experience is a melting pot of expertise where individuals bring unique skills, insights, and ambitions. In this dynamic environment, the power of networking shines. Connections forged in college can shape not only a student’s academic journey but also their career trajectory. Whether through a chance meeting with a classmate who shares your passion, a mentoring relationship with a professor, or an employment opportunity that aligns perfectly with your aspirations, networking is the bridge that turns potential into action. At Education at Work, we provide employment opportunities that allow college students to gain real-world work experience, develop highly sought-after skills, and graduate with less debt and access to high-quality first jobs. Our work-based learning model allows students to practice essential interpersonal skills, make lasting impressions, and gain insights from industry professionals in a way that others simply can’t replicate. When students connect with peers across disciplines in work-based learning environments like Education at Work, they merge unique talents with real-world experiences, propelling their learning and professional growth to new heights. Why In-Person Networking Matters More Than Ever In a world where screens dominate our daily lives, connecting in person has become a standout skill. Employers consistently value candidates who demonstrate strong communication and relationship-building abilities. In-person networking allows you to showcase these skills and develop them. Moreover, personal networking fosters genuine relationships that go beyond transactional exchanges. These connections often lead to mentorships, internships, and collaborations that can profoundly influence your career. Tips for Effective In-Person Networking Be Prepared: Research the attendees or organizations involved before attending any event. Prepare a few questions or topics to discuss that align with your interests. Be Genuine: Focus on building relationships rather than simply collecting contacts. Show genuine interest in others and their stories. Follow-up: After meeting someone, send a personalized email or message to thank them for their time and continue the conversation. Practice Your Elevator Pitch: Be ready to succinctly share who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what you want to achieve. The Takeaway Networking in college is more than a professional strategy—it’s a mindset that shapes your learning, collaboration, and growth approach. By embracing the opportunities for face-to-face interactions and making meaningful connections, you’re expanding your network and creating a foundation for success far beyond graduation. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline Through Strategic University Partnerships
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline Through Strategic University Partnerships By collaborating with higher education institutions, organizations like Education at Work gain direct access to emerging talent, align with evolving skill development needs, and create lasting connections that drive retention and brand loyalty. In a rapidly evolving labor market, organizations face the dual challenge of finding qualified talent and ensuring alignment with evolving industry needs. One increasingly popular solution is establishing university partnerships to build a sustainable talent pipeline. Let’s explore how strategic university partnerships are reshaping the future of talent acquisition. Access to Emerging Talent University partnerships offer companies unparalleled access to diverse, emerging talent. Colleges and universities are hubs for ambitious, tech-savvy students ready to make their mark professionally. Through these partnerships, organizations have a unique opportunity to reach students before they enter the broader job market, helping identify and develop high-potential candidates early on. Education at Work’s partnerships with universities, for instance, create pathways for students to gain work experience and allow employers to mold talent to meet specific organizational needs. By connecting with students during their educational journey, companies can support their growth and prepare them for roles that require specialized skills—something that might be more challenging with talent sourced from traditional recruiting channels. This mutually beneficial relationship equips students with practical experience and provides businesses with a pipeline of engaged, knowledgeable future employees. Alignment with Skills Development Needs The future of work demands constantly evolving skills, especially in fields like technology, analytics, project management, and customer service. University partnerships enable companies to influence curriculum development and align it with industry requirements. Collaborating with academic institutions allows businesses to ensure students remain equipped with the skills most relevant to the market. Education at Work, for instance, works closely with its partner universities to align job roles with the skills students learn in the classroom. This alignment ensures that students gain practical experience that complements their academic training, making them more adaptable and capable employees post-graduation. By providing on-the-job training that aligns with current industry demands, companies enhance students’ employability and create a better-prepared workforce to contribute from day one. Enhancing Brand Visibility and Loyalty University partnerships can also significantly build brand loyalty and visibility among students. When a company actively participates in a student’s academic journey, it leaves a positive impression that can influence students’ employment choices upon graduation. This association boosts the company’s employer brand, making it an attractive destination for students entering the workforce. Education at Work, for instance, finds that students who experience the company’s culture during their college years are more likely to view it favorably and consider it a long-term employer. This early exposure cultivates loyalty, increasing the likelihood of students accepting full-time roles post-graduation and staying with the organization for the long term. This practice boosts employee retention and reduces the costs associated with high turnover rates. The Future of University Partnerships in Talent Pipeline Development The landscape of university partnerships is rapidly evolving, with technology and remote learning transforming how students engage with employers. Here are a few trends to watch: Emphasis on Technology Integration: Organizations increasingly leverage technology to reach students beyond traditional campus settings. Virtual career fairs, online mentorship programs, and digital skill-building workshops allow companies to connect with a broader range of students and provide real-world experience remotely. Growth in Hybrid and Remote Learning: As remote and hybrid learning become more common, companies have new opportunities to interact with students outside campus visits or internships. This flexibility enables organizations to engage talent across diverse geographies and encourages inclusivity in recruitment. Focus on Micro-credentials and Specialized Skills: Micro-credentials, boot camps, and specialized courses are becoming popular among students seeking specific skills. University partnerships integrating these learning formats help students and companies stay up-to-date with in-demand skills, creating a continuous learning culture that benefits both parties. Conclusion In today’s competitive job market, university partnerships are essential for companies looking to secure a sustainable talent pipeline. By providing access to emerging talent, aligning with skill development needs, and enhancing brand visibility and loyalty, these partnerships offer a long-term advantage in recruitment and retention. As technology and educational trends evolve, forward-thinking organizations like Education at Work are leading the way by leveraging university partnerships to help employers build a resilient and adaptable workforce prepared for the future. Ready to future-proof your talent pipeline? Contact us to learn how our university partnerships can support your recruitment goals and help shape the skilled professionals your organization needs. Let’s start building your future team together! Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Bridging the Gap: How Education at Work is Changing Lives and Careers
Bridging the Gap: How Education at Work is Changing Lives and Careers Featured in The New York Times Transitioning from college to a meaningful career can be daunting, but Education at Work redefines the journey. By forging innovative partnerships with leading companies and universities, we empower the next generation to bridge the gap between education and opportunity, proving that investing in students isn’t just impactful—it’s essential. In a world where transitioning from college to meaningful employment often feels like an uphill battle, Education at Work is a beacon of hope and innovation. Recently highlighted in The New York Times Giving Guide 2024, our mission-driven nonprofit addresses a systemic issue: the broken link between higher education and career opportunities. The Times article underscored the challenges facing today’s graduates, describing a job market that, despite low unemployment rates, leaves many students unheard and undervalued. The issue isn’t just about jobs—it’s about trust. Employers hesitate to invest in untested candidates, and graduates are left “screaming into the void” with every unanswered application. Education at Work offers a powerful solution. Our organization builds bridges that benefit students and employers by connecting college students with paid employment at major companies like Fidelity Investments, First Financial Bank, and Intuit. Our work-based learning model doesn’t just provide a paycheck—it covers tuition costs, opens doors to career opportunities, and, as our President Jane Swift explains, fosters “purpose and passion” in young professionals. Our approach directly combats what economists call the “lemons” problem, where uncertainty prevents employers from taking risks on new talent. Through carefully structured partnerships with universities and businesses, we prove that investing in students isn’t a gamble—it’s a strategy for success. But there’s more to do. As the Times highlights, organizations like ours depend on the support of generous individuals and companies. Every donation makes a difference, helping expand these life-changing programs to more students and communities. If you believe in the power of education and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation, please consider making a gift to Education at Work through our Donations Page. Together, we can transform the job market into a system that works for everyone. Make a difference today—because every student deserves a chance to thrive. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Diversity and Inclusion through Student Employment Programs
Diversity and Inclusion through Student Employment Programs Creating Pathways for Underrepresented Groups Programs like those offered by Education at Work (E@W) connect companies with diverse college talent and help create career pathways for underrepresented groups. These programs are crucial for fostering an inclusive workforce and how E@W can be a valuable partner in advancing DEI goals. In today’s workforce, achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. DEI strengthens organizations by promoting innovation, driving productivity, and improving financial performance. One powerful way to encourage DEI is through a student employment program. Student employment programs help students transition smoothly from academic life into the workforce, giving them hands-on experience while still in school. These experiences do more than provide paychecks; they are essential for building confidence, durable skills, and social capital. For students from underrepresented backgrounds, these programs help them overcome financial and social barriers that might otherwise limit their access to specific career paths, and they can be the difference between entering the workforce with a high-quality first job and being left out. Evidence-Based Impact Employment programs like those offered by E@W demonstrate the impact of student employment on economic mobility and career readiness. Research from the Center for American Progress highlights that student employment programs increase financial stability and career preparedness, mainly supporting students from marginalized communities. These programs allow students to graduate with both experience and confidence, positioning them to enter industries where they have been historically underrepresented. The Role of Education at Work in Advancing DEI through Student Employment Education at Work is uniquely positioned to help bridge the gap between college and career, particularly for underrepresented students. E@W partners with universities and major employers to provide students with meaningful, flexible employment opportunities that align with their studies and career goals. E@W’s Approach to Student Development Through its structured support model, E@W provides real-world job experience alongside mentorship and professional development. This model benefits students who might otherwise be working part-time in unrelated fields, allowing them to gain industry-specific skills while earning an income. E@W emphasizes skill-building and networking, helping students build critical connections and confidence. This comprehensive approach ensures that students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are ready to enter competitive job markets. Impact on Students E@W’s impact can be seen in the stories of students who have gone through the program. Many have transitioned into full-time roles within their industries, equipped with the skills and professional networks they developed through E@W. Testimonials from students underscore the value of E@W in giving them a foundation they would not have had access to otherwise. For instance, a recent E@W alum shared that “the program helped me see my potential and gave me the confidence to apply for roles I wouldn’t have considered before.” Building a Pipeline of Diverse Talent For employers, investing in student employment programs provides a way to build a pipeline of diverse, capable talent. By working with Education at Work, companies meet their recruitment needs and are committed to inclusive hiring practices, starting with early-career employees. Education at Work offers customizable partnership models that enable organizations to align student employment with their specific DEI goals. These models provide organizations access to a pool of diverse, motivated, and prepared candidates, adding immediate value to their talent pipeline. Real-World Results Education at Work has a track record of positive outcomes for students and partners. From retention to graduation rates, E@W’s program results demonstrate that diverse students with access to career-building employment during college are more likely to persist in their studies and successfully transition to full-time employment. Student employment programs like those offered by E@W are essential for building a more inclusive workforce. They create pathways for underrepresented students, offer employers a way to meet DEI goals, and ultimately contribute to a fairer, more inclusive future. For employers looking to strengthen their DEI efforts, partnering with E@W provides a powerful opportunity to build a more diverse and equitable workforce. If your organization is interested in fostering a culture of inclusion from the ground up, contact us to explore how we can help meet your DEI goals through student employment. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
The Benefits of Early Talent Pipeline Development
The Benefits of Early Talent Pipeline Development Building a robust early talent pipeline is a crucial investment for businesses aiming to sustain growth, innovation, and adaptability in today’s market. Organizations can gain a competitive edge by prioritizing early-career talent while addressing critical workforce issues, including skills shortages, diversity, and employee retention. In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, securing a steady flow of skilled and adaptable talent is more critical than ever. For organizations looking to stay ahead, investing in early-career talent is more than just a recruitment strategy—it’s a pathway to long-term success. At Education at Work, we specialize in providing large employers with a pipeline of hard-working, tech-savvy college students to fill in-demand roles in project management, analytics, customer service, and beyond. Our model—driven by real-world training and employment—bridges the gap between college and career, helping businesses achieve measurable outcomes while positioning students for high-quality post-graduation job opportunities. This article highlights the immense value of partnerships like ours in workforce development and shares why investing in early talent is a powerful strategy for organizational resilience and growth. Research shows that developing early talent pipelines fills immediate roles and sets the stage for long-term workforce stability. For instance, organizations with early-career solid programs report a 24% higher retention rate for hires who progress through these initiatives than traditional hires. This phenomenon is particularly impactful in industries like technology, finance, and healthcare, where specialized skills and high turnover can create gaps in service and productivity. Furthermore, data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) indicates that 85% of organizations see increased employee engagement and productivity when they invest in robust internship and early career programs, as they are better prepared to engage and retain employees who align with their culture and goals. (Symba, 2023; LDP Connect, 2021; InStride, 2022) Diversity Gains in Early Career Hiring Developing an early talent pipeline also supports a company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) objectives, which are top priorities for many modern businesses. Early talent programs create opportunities to recruit from a wider pool of candidates, often allowing companies to reach a more diverse range of students from different backgrounds, skills, and experiences. LinkedIn’s Workforce Diversity Report states that companies with DEI-driven early career programs are 1.7 times more likely to meet diversity hiring goals than those without. In sectors like technology and finance, where historically underrepresented groups are less prevalent in senior roles, early talent pipelines can have a lasting impact by building a foundation of diversity from the ground up. Education at Work is committed to partnering with companies to foster this inclusive approach. By collaborating with universities and offering programs tailored to students from various disciplines, we connect employers with a diverse, capable workforce prepared to contribute immediately and grow into more advanced roles. Cost Efficiency and Long-Term Value Beyond talent quality, early career programs deliver notable cost efficiencies. Entry-level positions typically cost less in terms of salaries and hiring fees than more experienced hires, and early talent programs can significantly reduce overall recruitment expenses by developing a steady, internal pipeline for future roles. A recent study from Deloitte shows that organizations with formalized early career programs save up to 40% on recruitment costs over time by lowering turnover and creating a predictable talent supply. These savings extend to onboarding and training, as early career employees trained within the organization require less acclimatization and quickly reach productivity. For example, healthcare companies often need help with turnover in critical frontline roles. By investing in partnerships that offer hands-on training and career growth, these organizations can reduce hiring cycles and focus resources on developing current employees. Education at Work’s structured programs prepares college students for their initial roles and career paths within partner organizations, saving time and resources for their hiring teams. Incorporating an early talent pipeline strategy is a transformative investment that provides immediate and long-term value for organizations. By building a skilled, diverse workforce committed to growth, companies can address critical hiring challenges, bolster DEI initiatives, and lower recruitment costs while positioning themselves for resilience and adaptability. At Education at Work, we’re proud to support businesses in achieving these goals by connecting them with driven, well-prepared college students ready to impact from day one. Interested in learning more about how a partnership with Education at Work can benefit your organization? Contact us today to explore how we can help you develop a solid early talent pipeline and secure a future-ready workforce. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube