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Each month, Success brings you a research brief or in-depth article to discuss with board members and administrators.
Employers see industry credentials as a bonus for graduates
A recent survey by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which gathered insights from 500 hiring managers across diverse industries, revealed that more than 80% of employers are concerned about students’ preparedness for the workforce immediately following high school graduation. Respondents represented small, medium and large firms, yet reached similar conclusions: the demand for industry-recognized credentials and strong soft skills continues to rise for entry-level candidates.
Employers place significant value on credentials when determining career readiness. Among trade school graduates, 90% of employers considered those with industry-recognized credentials to be career-ready, compared with just 76% for those without. The trend was consistent for four-year college graduates: 89% of employers expressed confidence in candidates holding both a degree and credentials, versus 74% who relied solely on a degree. For high school graduates, the contrast was even starker — 71% of employers said students with career seals were prepared for the workforce, while only 40% believed the same of those without credentials.
Hiring managers also indicated that experience and demonstrated abilities often outweigh formal education. Candidates who completed internships, showcased problem-solving capacity or communicated effectively were ranked higher than applicants who had prior leadership titles or even bachelor’s degrees. This reinforces the idea that adaptability, communication and collaboration are essential for success in today’s workplace.
In addition, employers increasingly value financial literacy. With 35 states mandating financial literacy courses, 61% of hiring managers cited budgeting, debt management and tax knowledge as desirable skills for entry-level workers. Nearly all respondents highlighted the importance of courses that cultivate critical thinking, communication and teamwork, while also calling for greater emphasis on business education.
Recognizing the shift in workforce expectations, the College Board is expanding its Advanced Placement (AP) offerings through the “AP Career Kickstart” program. Beginning in the 2026–27 academic year, students will have access to new AP courses in business, personal finance and cybersecurity — designed to equip graduates with practical, career-relevant skills that employers are seeking.
The findings send a clear message: Diplomas alone are no longer enough. Credentials, real-world experiences and essential life skills are becoming the benchmarks of true career readiness.
> Dive into the full report on career readiness
> Read a synopsis of this survey
> Read the highlights of the survey
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