News Roundup - 4/04
- Heather Harman
- Apr 4
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 30
Our weekly roundup of education technology, workforce technology, and venture capital news.
In this day and age, technology is rapidly reshaping industries and job markets, so it’s essential to explore how education systems and workforce strategies are evolving to meet these new demands. This week's News Roundup shines a light on several recent articles that highlight the critical shifts in career education, the challenges faced by Gen Z in entering skilled trades, and the innovative strategies being adopted by HR professionals to cultivate existing talent. From the integration of AI in education to the importance of impact investing, these discussions underscore the need for adaptive approaches to prepare students and workers for a future that is both promising and complex.
Career education evolves to meet emerging technology demands – School systems across the U.S. are updating their vocational programs to better equip students for careers impacted by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). As highlighted by Alisha Hyslop from the Association for Career and Technical Education, advancements in fields such as automotive technology necessitate new teaching methods that focus on skills relevant to modern vehicles, including electric and autonomous models. While automation may change job roles—such as the introduction of robots in construction—Hyslop emphasizes that human workers will still be essential for programming and maintaining these technologies. A recent report from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, in partnership with ACTE underscores the need for these educational shifts to ensure that students are prepared for the evolving job market, which demands new skills and trades.
The Business of Education: Dr. Bridget Burns on Challenges in the Education System – In this episode of the Business of Education, Kyle Wallgren converses with one of our Senior Advisors, Dr. Bridget Burns, about her work with the University Innovation Alliance, which aims to enhance student success in higher education. They discuss the pressing need for innovative solutions to systemic issues, with a focus on predictive analytics and AI to support at-risk students and close equity gaps. Edtech companies have opportunities to help by developing tools that facilitate communication, enhance data-driven decision-making, and foster collaboration between institutions. Additionally, they can support leadership initiatives by providing scalable solutions that prioritize student needs and promote long-term change. The conversation underscores the importance of empathy in leadership, the challenges of funding educational initiatives, and the necessity for a cohesive network among educational leaders to drive systemic reform.
Closing the GenZ Skills Gap – The "Gen Z in the Skilled Workforce" report by Cengage Group highlights the challenges and opportunities for edtech and workforce companies in attracting young talent to skilled trades and healthcare roles. With 4.2 million U.S. workers expected to retire soon, there is an urgent need to engage Gen Z, who cite financial barriers as a significant obstacle to pursuing careers in these fields. The report reveals that 98% of Gen Z jobseekers are more likely to pursue skilled trades if training is funded, and many feel underprepared due to inadequate training programs. Companies can address these issues by offering affordable, comprehensive training options, developing partnerships with high schools to provide hands-on learning, and ensuring that career pathways include growth opportunities and skill development. Additionally, leveraging digital platforms for outreach and engagement can help connect with this generation, who heavily rely on online resources for job searches and employer research.
Catching Up With Our Earliest EdTech Influencers – The interviews with K-12 edtech influencers reveal an environment that is both dynamic and challenging, marked by the rapid evolution of technology and the integration of AI into education. These influencers emphasize their ongoing commitment to supporting educators through blogs, podcasts, and professional development, while highlighting significant achievements in their respective fields. A common theme is the excitement surrounding AI's potential to enhance personalized learning, coupled with a cautious recognition of the ethical and practical challenges it presents. These thought leaders advocate for schools to embrace technological advancements rather than resist them, urging a focus on equipping students with critical thinking and adaptability skills to navigate a tech-driven future. Overall, the findings reinforce a need for intentional guidance in leveraging technology to foster effective learning environments while addressing cybersecurity and ethical considerations.
The Evolution of Impact Investing: A Q&A with Sorenson Impact Institute CEO Katie Macc and ImpactAlpha Founder and Editor David Bank – In this conversation, David Bank, Founder and Editor of Impact Alpha, and Katie Macc, CEO of the Sorenson Impact Institute, discuss the evolution of impact investing and the critical role media plays in shaping the industry's narrative. The discussion emphasizes the importance of defining impact investing as a strategy that seeks to generate measurable social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. They highlight the growing recognition of impact investing within mainstream finance, noting that major financial institutions are increasingly adopting strategies that prioritize impact. The conversation also touches on the need for resilience in impact investing, particularly in light of environmental and economic challenges. A key takeaway is the notion that impact investing should not remain a niche but should be integrated into all investment decisions, fostering a broader societal understanding of its significance. The dialogue underscores the importance of language, identity, and community in advancing the impact investing movement and calls for a collective commitment to creating a world that prioritizes both financial and social returns.
HR shifts its focus from recruiting to fostering existing talent, SHRM report finds – The 2025 SHRM State of the Workplace report reveals a significant shift in HR priorities, with leadership and management development now topping the list, moving away from a primary focus on recruitment. This change reflects a growing emphasis on enhancing the skills of existing employees to meet evolving organizational needs, particularly as labor market pressures have eased since 2022. HR professionals are increasingly prioritizing employee retention and career progression, with a focus on developing training programs, especially for hourly workers. Despite some success in recruiting, many employees report feeling overworked due to unfilled roles, which has resulted in burnout. The report reinforces the importance of improving employee experience through recognition and collaboration to reduce turnover and support training efforts, especially for front-line workers. Overall, workforce development strategies in 2025 should concentrate on nurturing existing talent and fostering a supportive work environment to enhance retention and productivity.
It's clear that collaboration and innovation are vital for bridging the skills gap and enhancing educational outcomes. By prioritizing comprehensive training, fostering empathetic leadership, and embracing technological advancements, we can ensure that future generations are not only equipped for the jobs of tomorrow but are also empowered to thrive in them.