Today’s fast-changing job market requires adaptable, well-trained workers. But with a shrinking labor pool, companies must focus on developing local talent and internal pipelines to stay agile.
Meanwhile, millions of U.S. workers without degrees — who we refer to as Rising Talent — are stuck in low-wage jobs despite having valuable, often overlooked skills. Investing in their growth could help solve major workforce challenges. Upskilling Rising Talent isn’t just good for workers — it’s good for businesses too. These individuals bring real-world experience that can translate into key workplace skills. And creating pathways for their advancement can build a more resilient, loyal, and skilled workforce.
Earlier this year, we facilitated a solutioning session with employers, educators, nonprofits, and policymakers at the inaugural Human Potential Summit to explore the key challenges to upskilling Rising Talent — and ideate solutions to better support them. In The Hidden Pathway, we explored these challenges and opportunities in the hopes of changing lives and transforming our economy.
The call to action is clear: Employers, educators, policymakers, and community organizations must come together to prioritize investment in Rising Talent through building talent pipelines.
The journey to building internal talent pipelines from the frontlines forward is not a straightforward one, but it is essential for building a more equitable and resilient workforce. The insights shared in this report highlight both the systemic barriers that hold millions of workers back and the actionable solutions that can unlock their potential.
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