Durable Skills and the Future of Higher Education: Insights from Shannon McCarty
Sep 08, 2025
When we think about preparing students for the future of work, technical skills often take center stage. But in our conversation with Dr. Shannon McCarty of Calbright College, she reminded us of something critical: what employers increasingly value are durable skills — communication, problem solving, collaboration, and adaptability.
In part two of our Engaged by Design podcast interview, Shannon explained why these skills must be embedded into every aspect of higher education. At Calbright, that means rethinking general education and ensuring that competency-based programs not only deliver technical expertise, but also prepare students for the human challenges of the workplace.
Durable skills are:
- Transferable across industries and roles.
- Essential for leadership, teamwork, and career advancement.
- The foundation for adapting as technology, including AI, reshapes the job market.
Shannon also noted that institutions must create intentional learning experiences where students practice these skills through real-world projects, authentic assessments, and collaborative problem solving.
For leaders in higher education, this is a wake-up call: the future isn’t just about coding or technical certifications. It’s about helping students become agile thinkers and effective communicators who can thrive no matter how work evolves.
Reflection Question for You:
How is your institution embedding durable skills into courses, programs, and student support?
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