The other day, I overheard a mother and daughter talking about college, and the conversation stopped me in my tracks. The young high schooler asked, "Would you feel badly if I didn’t go to college?" Her mom, without missing a beat, reassured her: "No, of course not. I changed my major twice and never even used my degree. It was a waste of money, and look at your dad—he only did two years, and he’s thriving in a field he’d never have learned in a classroom."
It’s a powerful exchange that highlights a growing question: Are traditional educational paths the best route for everyone? Particularly here in rural areas like western South Carolina, where trades are often the go-to choice for non-college-bound students, it raises an even deeper question—are there other paths to success? Could skill stacking, a strategy of building diverse, complementary skills, be a new way for young people to explore careers, even if college isn’t in their future? In fact, could it be a key to building healthier, economically stable communities?
The Shift Away from College
More and more young people are questioning the traditional path of high school to college to career. Studies from prominent outlets like The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Forbes reveal a national trend: college enrollment is dropping, and the return on investment in college education is increasingly being scrutinized. Rising tuition, student debt, and changing job markets have left many families wondering if a college degree is worth the cost. Meanwhile, the skills gap in trades, technology, healthcare, and “pink collar” professions—fields that offer stable, impactful careers but don’t necessarily require a four-year degree—is growing wider.
This shift is not only cultural but economic. A recent study by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce projected that 35% of jobs in the U.S. do not require a bachelor’s degree. Instead, they call for specific skills that can be gained through certification programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Yet, even as students and families seek alternatives, there remains a need to innovate on what these alternatives look like.
Skill Stacking: A New Model for Career Exploration
Skill stacking is a promising alternative. The concept is simple: rather than focusing narrowly on a single field of study, students explore multiple skills across different domains, creating a “stack” that makes them versatile and valuable in the job market. In contrast to the singular pathway that a degree often demands, skill stacking is about building a toolkit of competencies. Imagine a student who combines basic programming skills with an understanding of healthcare protocols and customer service expertise. This stack prepares them for various roles, from health tech support to project management in medical facilities.
For students unsure about their career paths or those not wired for traditional academia, skill stacking can be both liberating and empowering. It enables young people to explore areas of interest while creating tangible value for future employers. This kind of flexibility is especially relevant in today’s gig economy, where career paths are often less linear and more project-based.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond Trade Schools
Vocational training is an invaluable asset in rural areas, but it tends to lean heavily toward trades. And while trades are crucial, they’re only part of the picture. We can reimagine vocational high schools to include a broader spectrum of skills, such as digital literacy, healthcare support, sustainable agriculture, and even arts and design. Programs could be tailored to teach students skills like cybersecurity, green energy technology, or digital marketing—skills in demand across a range of industries.
Could we create educational models that adapt to local needs? In regions like western North and South Carolina, schools could partner with community organizations, hospitals, tech companies, and local businesses to design apprenticeship and mentorship programs that serve regional employment needs while aligning with students’ interests.
Imagine vocational high schools that offer tracks in:
Healthcare Support (CNA, patient transporter, phlebotomist, lab technicians, patient care technician, pharmacy technician, sterile processing technician, radiology aid)
Digital Media and Marketing (content creation, social media management, web design)
Sustainable Agriculture (greenhouse management, organic farming, food production)
Environmental Sciences (conservation, forestry, water management)
Information Technology (cybersecurity, IT support, software testing)
This diversification would not only address local labor shortages but also elevate rural communities by fostering local expertise. When young people feel they can make a difference at home, they’re more likely to stay, invest, and contribute to their communities.
The Economic and Social Impact of Broadening Career Paths
Studies show that young adults who enter the workforce with specialized skills are more likely to find well-paying jobs that allow them to support families and give back to their communities. This is especially important in regions struggling with poverty and limited access to resources. Equipping students with in-demand skills enables them to break cycles of poverty while contributing to the local economy.
By broadening career exploration and skill acquisition beyond college prep or trades, we create pathways for young people to pursue meaningful, stable careers. Skill stacking could be transformative for rural areas, where the impact of a single thriving business or organization reverberates through the community, creating jobs, stability, and optimism.
Building Healthy Families and Communities Through Innovative Education
As parents and educators, we’re entrusted with the task of helping young people find paths to success that suit their unique strengths. Skill stacking offers a way to guide them toward careers that don’t just sustain them financially but fulfill them personally. By investing in programs that expand vocational opportunities, we give our youth the chance to build lives rooted in purpose and connection.
If we invest in skill-stacking programs and broaden vocational training, we’re not just helping students—we’re building healthier, more vibrant communities. These communities will be filled with people who are not only skilled but also committed to making a positive impact. This vision for education is an opportunity to reimagine career preparation for the next generation, one that aligns with their individual aspirations and creates a brighter future for us all.
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