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Report/Research

Federal Policy Unlocks for a Skills-First Economy

October 31, 2024

At a Glance

In this paper, JFF offers a comprehensive set of federal policy recommendations that are highly actionable, practical, and bipartisan—focusing on solutions that can be implemented to build a more inclusive dynamic and human-centered economy.

Contributors
Taylor Maag Director of ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵforce Policy
Susannah Rodrigue Senior Manager
David Bradley Section Research Manager, Congressional Research Service
Practices & Centers

ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ (JFF) has set an ambitious goal: that by 2033, 75 million people facing systemic barriers will secure quality jobs. Achieving this vision hinges on the widespread adoption of skills-based education, training, and talent management practices. However, transforming America into a true skills-based economy demands more than isolated efforts; it also requires a comprehensive, systemic approach.

The challenges in today’s labor market underscore the critical need to move beyond traditional degree-focused practices and place greater value on skills and competencies. This shift calls for a united effort from employers, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders to rethink our education and workforce systems. We must create multiple pathways for learning, establish trust in non-degree postsecondary credentials, and drive the private sector toward skills-based practices.

By collectively embracing and implementing these policy changes, national leaders can build a more inclusive, dynamic, and resilient economy—one that fully taps into the potential of all workers, regardless of their educational backgrounds.

ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ (JFF) is a national nonprofit that drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all.