Workforce Readiness Starts in the Classroom
Empower faculty to cultivate the skilled talent employers demand.
Preparing Students for Today’s Evolving Workforce
Employers increasingly seek graduates who can translate knowledge into action—professionals who solve complex challenges, collaborate effectively, and communicate the value of their skills. While this work starts in the classroom, students may leave college unsure of how to communicate the value of their learning or how to transfer their knowledge to professional contexts.
When faculty intentionally connect coursework to students’ future careers, students gain opportunities to practice professional skills, understand career pathways, and articulate the value of their learning. Embedding these practices across courses strengthens both student outcomes and institutional impact.
Employers Value Career-Connected Skills
80% +
prioritize teamwork, communication, and strong problem-solving skills (2025)
74%
emphasize the importance of participating in experiential learning in college (2026)
70%
use skills-based hiring practices at least half of the time (2026)
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), Job Outlook reports (2025, 2026)
ACUE’s Endorsement in Preparing Workforce-Ready Students
The Quick Studies, events, and resources under Preparing Workforce-Ready Students provide practical strategies for embedding career guidance into courses, designing authentic assessments that mirror the tasks that students will perform in their careers, and helping students develop transferable skills.
This endorsement prepares faculty to:
Guide students in exploring career paths connected to their discipline
Connect students with alumni and mentors to expand career opportunities
Align course outcomes with transferable skills and help students communicate their strengths
Build teamwork skills to strengthen collaboration and problem-solving
Design authentic assignments that mirror real-world scenarios
Prepare students for experiential learning through structured practice and reflection
Earn and Maintain the Workforce Readiness Endorsement
ACUE Endorsements are available exclusively through ACUE Commons, our community of practice that supports institutions in sustaining faculty growth through ongoing learning, collaboration, and timely professional development aligned with emerging priorities in higher education.
Valid for 12 months, this distinction recognizes applied expertise in developing career-ready graduates.
Faculty keep their endorsement active by continuing to engage in workforce-readiness resources, including Quick Studies and Commons events.
Ready to Get Started with ACUE Commons?
New to ACUE?
Connect with ACUE to explore institution-wide access to ACUE Commons and support your faculty and campus leaders.
Connect with Us
Have Commons?
Encourage your faculty to start the Preparing Workforce-Ready Students Quick Study series to begin working toward their endorsement!
About ACUE
The Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) is dedicated to student success through high-quality instruction. In partnership with higher education institutions, we offer the only nationally recognized Effective Teaching certification, endorsed by the American Council on Education (ACE), supported by a vibrant online community of practice focused on advancing teaching excellence.
