Reimagining the Future of Work: Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025
Reimagining the Future of Work Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025 At the 2025 JFF Horizons conference, Education at Work President Jane Swift joined a dynamic panel to discuss how Gen Z is reshaping the future of work. The conversation explored how skills-first learning, flexible pathways, and real-world experience are redefining the value of a college degree. Swift shared how Education at Work is helping lead this shift by connecting students to purpose-driven, paid work experiences that prepare them for long-term success. At this year’s Horizons, a national education and workforce summit organized by Jobs for the Future, Education at Work President and former Massachusetts Governor Jane Swift took the stage alongside leading voices in talent engagement and workforce development to explore the evolving value of a college degree in a skills-first world. Held in New Orleans, the panel discussion—“Gen Z Career Paths: Renewing the Degree’s Value in a Skills-Driven World”— was a powerful cross-sector dialogue on how to empower Gen Z with flexible, purpose-driven pathways to quality jobs. Moderated by The Wall Street Journal economics reporter Rachel Wolfe, the conversation featured Jane Swift, Valerie Capers Workman (Chief Talent Engagement Officer at Handshake), and Kevin Stump, Ed.D. (Vice President of Impact at Education Design Lab). The discussion centered around how Gen Z is reshaping traditional career trajectories and demanding new models of education and employment that emphasize skills over credentials, experience over theory, and purpose over prestige. Swift, drawing from her leadership at Education at Work, emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education and workforce demands through real-world, paid work experiences that build both soft and technical skills. She spoke passionately about the transformative power of experiential learning and the role of institutions like E@W in creating scalable, inclusive talent pipelines for employers -particularly those looking to reach new, diverse, tech-savvy talent. Panelists also explored the rising popularity of career and technical education, the shifting influence of AI on the job market, and the importance of preparing students—especially young men—for meaningful, future-ready careers. When asked what single change she hopes to see in the next decade, Swift called for a radical rethinking of the student-employer relationship, where work-based learning becomes the norm rather than the exception. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
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
Gaining Confidence and Real-World Experience: Martin Hristov’s Journey at Intuit
Gaining Confidence and Real-World Experience: Martin Hristov’s Journey at Intuit E@W Student Spotlight Starting college is a time of exciting new opportunities and big decisions about the future. For Martin Hristov, a freshman at Arizona State University majoring in finance, one of those key decisions was to start building his career experience early—by working as a product expert for Intuit through Education at Work (E@W). While many college students might wait until later in their academic careers to pursue professional roles, Martin immediately recognized the value of getting hands-on experience. “I value the chance to work for a large company like Intuit so early on,” he shares. “I know this experience will help me in the future since I’ll be able to put on my resume that I’ve worked directly with customers, helping them with their tax forms and addressing financial issues.” However, the benefits of Martin’s role go far beyond what he can list on his resume. Since joining Intuit, Martin has had the chance to sharpen key professional skills—skills that aren’t always developed in a typical classroom setting. “This job has helped me improve my problem-solving and communication skills,” he says. “I’ve learned how to approach complex questions, explain financial concepts clearly, and work with various people. I am much more confident since working here.” For Martin, one of the most valuable aspects of working at E@W is the community and support system it offers. “It’s not just a job—it’s a professional network,” he adds. “I’ve met a lot of peers who are also balancing school and work, and it feels good to be part of a real-world corporate setting outside of my classes. It’s given me a sense of belonging and helped me understand how a large company operates.” Balancing work and school can be challenging, but Martin appreciates how E@W’s partnership with Intuit is designed with students in mind. One standout feature is the flexibility in scheduling, which allows students like Martin to succeed academically and professionally. “A key benefit to working for E@W over other companies offering tuition assistance is the flexibility,” he says. “I can prioritize my classes and still gain valuable experience without feeling overwhelmed.” As Martin continues his studies in finance, he’s already laying a strong foundation for his future career. Through his role with Intuit, he’s building real-world skills, expanding his professional network, and gaining the confidence to take on whatever challenges lie ahead. His advice for other students? Don’t wait to get started. Opportunities like Education at Work allow students to earn a paycheck, receive tuition assistance, and develop career-ready skills—all while balancing life as a college student. Education at Work isn’t just a job—it’s a launchpad.Like Martin, you can earn a paycheck, gain valuable skills, and set yourself up for long-term success.Browse current student openings and apply now! 🌟 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
Launch Your Career While in College
Launch Your Career While in College Real-World Experience with Education at Work Gaining relevant work experience can be a game-changer for college students. It’s more than just building a resume—it’s about developing real-world skills that bridge the gap between academic learning and professional success. Education at Work allows students to enter meaningful, industry-aligned roles with leading companies. Through hands-on experience, tailored training, and growth opportunities, our programs empower students to graduate with a competitive edge and be fully prepared to thrive in their careers. For college students, hands-on experience in their chosen field is vital to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. It builds technical skills and equips students with the confidence and readiness to take on the demands of a full-time career. At Education at Work, we’re committed to offering students impactful, industry-relevant experiences that set them apart in today’s competitive job market. The Value of Early Career Experience Studies show that work-based learning and hands-on experience are critical predictors of early career success. According to a report by the Strada Education Foundation, work-based learning experiences can result in higher job satisfaction. 19% of all Bachelor’s degree holders claim that their education helped them achieve their goals. In comparison, 39% more work-based learning participants who hold Bachelor’s degrees report a feeling of achieving their goals. Individuals also feel more confident. Nearly 80% of work-based learning participants and paid internship holders reported confidence in their knowledge and skills to be successful in the job market. Education at Work understands this reality and structures its student job programs to equip students with the experience they need to stand out. How Education at Work Helps Build Relevant Experience Direct Access to Industry Roles: We partner with leading companies, placing students in roles that align with in-demand skills and emerging fields like analytics, customer service, project management, and technology. By working with actual client requirements, our students gain experience that directly reflects the skills employers are seeking. Skills Development Through Training: Every position at Education at Work includes comprehensive training, helping students develop job-specific skills and broader competencies like project management, communication, and technical problem-solving. Opportunities for Responsibility and Growth: Education at Work doesn’t just offer entry-level tasks; students are encouraged to take ownership of their work and even manage their peers as they progress. This approach provides students with experience in leadership, collaboration, and time management—capabilities that translate into higher confidence levels and readiness for post-graduation employment. Making the Most of Your Experience at Education at Work Students are encouraged to adopt an active learning approach, allowing them to fully maximize the benefits of their opportunity at Education at Work. This approach includes setting personal development goals, seeking supervisor feedback, and identifying how each task aligns with their career aspirations. Students who actively pursue new challenges and stay engaged in their roles will likely build a well-rounded skill set, allowing them to adapt to various career paths. Gaining relevant experience through a structured program like Education at Work is more than just a job; it’s an investment in your future. By combining industry-aligned roles with real responsibility, we position students to enter the workforce with a strong, competitive advantage and a head start in building a successful, fulfilling career. Tips for Transitioning to a Full-Time Career After Education at Work Transitioning from an Education at Work student job to a full-time role can be exciting and challenging. When it’s time to take the next step, these transition strategies can help students leverage their E@W experience for a smooth career entry. Highlight Transferable Skills on Your Resume: Your experience at E@W has equipped you with numerous transferable skills—such as communication, problem-solving, and project management—that are valuable in any industry. Update your resume to reflect these skills and provide specific examples. Network with Your E@W Connections: Networking remains one of the most effective ways to transition into a full-time role. Use the connections you made at E@W, including supervisors, mentors, and colleagues, to learn about opportunities in your desired field. Consider reaching out to them for informational interviews or recommendations, and be sure to stay in touch on LinkedIn. Prepare for Interviews by Reflecting on Your E@W Experience: Interviewers appreciate candidates who share specific, real-world examples showcasing their skills and work ethic. Reflect on your accomplishments and challenges at E@W and consider how these experiences prepared you for a full-time role. Craft your responses to highlight your technical and durable skills, such as handling customer inquiries, managing projects, or adapting to unexpected changes. Set Career Goals and Seek Mentorship: Goal-setting is vital to a successful career transition. Take time to define your career aspirations, such as the industries you’re interested in, the roles you’re targeting, or the skills you want to develop further. Mentorship can be instrumental in this process, and many E@W alumni are eager to support new graduates. Consider contacting past Education at Work mentors or joining our LinkedIn alumni group to gain guidance and insights on your journey. Use Professional Development Resources: Many companies, including E@W’s corporate partners, offer professional development resources like training sessions, workshops, and certifications. These opportunities can enhance your skill set and make you more competitive as a job candidate. LinkedIn Learning, for instance, has reported that job candidates who complete professional development courses see a 2x higher engagement rate from recruiters, underscoring the value of continuous learning. Transitioning from your Education at Work student job to a full-time career is a significant step. Still, with preparation and a focus on leveraging your experience, you’ll be ready to tackle this new chapter confidently. You can maximize this transition by strategically emphasizing your durable skills, networking, staying committed to your goals, and taking advantage of every growth opportunity to set yourself up for success. Ready to take the next step? Start implementing these tips today to boost your potential, and check out our current student job listings to see how Education at Work can help you kickstart your career!
Why Investing in Early Career Talent is Good Business
Why Investing in Early Career Talent is Good Business Partnering with Education at Work In a highly competitive labor market, where skilled and adaptable talent is in high demand, investing in early career talent offers employers a strategic advantage. In today’s competitive labor market, the demand for skilled, adaptable talent has never been higher. Investing in early career talent has become a powerful strategy for employers seeking to secure their future. By partnering with organizations like Education at Work, companies can access a pipeline of motivated, tech-savvy college students eager to bring fresh perspectives and energy to the workforce. This blog explores why investing in early career talent is not only beneficial for the future workforce but also an innovative, forward-thinking business decision for today’s employers. The Challenge: Attracting and Retaining Skilled Talent Employers across industries face a common challenge: attracting and retaining qualified talent. With unemployment rates for skilled workers at historic lows, competition for top talent is fierce. According to a survey from ManpowerGroup, nearly 70% of companies report talent shortages, and many need help filling key roles, particularly those requiring advanced digital skills and adaptability. This shortage often means higher costs as companies compete to attract mid-career professionals or need to increase wages to retain current employees. Additionally, younger generations of workers, such as Gen Z, have shifted workplace expectations. They seek career development, purpose-driven work, and flexibility, often leading them to pursue roles offering growth and stability over traditional career tracks. These expectations make employers need to reimagine their talent strategy to include younger talent ready to grow within the organization. The High Costs of Turnover and Recruitment Turnover is costly – and not just in terms of direct recruitment expenses. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates that the average cost per hire is around $4,700, and for roles that require specialized skills, this figure can exceed $10,000. Additionally, the expenses related to lost productivity, training, and onboarding can further stretch budgets. (Fit Small Business) Gallup reports that U.S. businesses lose nearly $1 trillion yearly due to voluntary turnover. When companies can’t retain employees, they face higher recruitment costs and disruptions to their operations, which can hurt team morale and reduce productivity. By hiring students early in their careers, companies can address these pain points more effectively. With the proper onboarding and mentorship, students are often more likely to grow and stay within an organization, saving employers time and money. (Gallup) The Benefits of Hiring Student Employees Financial Returns: Hiring early career talent presents a clear financial upside. Students entering the workforce through a structured program, like those offered by Education at Work, bring relevant skills at a competitive cost. Organizations benefit from a lower cost-per-hire and have the potential to shape these young professionals to fit their company culture and needs. Employers can reduce their reliance on expensive recruiting tactics by investing in students who become long-term contributors, thus minimizing turnover costs. Enhanced Company Culture: Working with students fosters a culture of growth and mentorship within organizations. Seasoned employees become mentors, creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and promoting leadership skills. This development culture can attract more high-potential employees and enhance team morale, as employees at all levels contribute to developing the next generation of talent. Diversity and Innovation: Student hires bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to the workplace. Partnering with organizations like Education at Work ensures that companies access a diverse range of talented young people who can contribute innovative solutions to modern challenges. This infusion of diverse perspectives helps organizations stay agile, culturally aware, and forward-thinking – essential qualities in today’s fast-paced business landscape. Why Partner with Education at Work? Education at Work specializes in connecting employers with college students who are eager to build their skills. These partnerships allow businesses to address immediate staffing needs and foster long-term workforce development. Employers can create a robust early talent pipeline by investing in student talent through a dedicated program, supporting sustainable growth and competitive advantage. When businesses invest in early career talent, they aren’t just hiring for the present – they’re building a more agile, resilient, and innovative future. Partnering with Education at Work ensures employers can access motivated, skilled students ready to contribute and grow, making it a win-win strategy for today and tomorrow. Contact us to learn more. 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