It’s time to shatter the myth that no degree means no skills.
50% of all U.S. workers face a “paper ceiling” – the invisible barrier that comes at every turn for workers without a bachelor's degree. Biased algorithms. Automatic degree screening. No alumni network. It adds up.
And it limits diversity and equity in the workplace. More than 60% of Black, 55% of Hispanic, 66% of rural, and 61% of veteran workers are STARs (workers Skilled through Alternative Routes).
By naming the paper ceiling, we can begin to dismantle it—casting a wider net for the talent we welcome into our organizations, and creating more equitable opportunities for everyone.
Whatever your role, you can help change the narrative about STARs, and champion skills-based hiring in your workplace and beyond.