Perhaps now more than ever, students of all ages, including adults, are looking for an education that can lead directly to a good job… without having to amass gigantic student loan debt. Because of this clear trend, career educators, trade schools and tech academies are having field day.
Today, only about 25% of American adults believe earning a college degree is extremely or very important…[1]
More than half of Gen-Z say it’s possible to get a good paying job without a traditional four-year college degree…[2]
And certificate program enrollment was up 9.9% in fall 2024 compared to the previous year.[3]
But even though things are going good for many in the post-secondary CTE space right now, there are trends to keep your eye on. Because, inevitably, things will change. They always do.
Today, Conversion Media Group, a national leader in higher education enrollment initiatives, will share six trends that post-secondary vocational educators should be aware of. Six trends that may help your school stay well ahead of the curve to better ensure your enrollment goals are met.
So, let’s get to them!
1. The Integration Of VR/AR Technology into Training
The use of technology in vocational education has grown rapidly and is especially embraced by the younger generations. Virtual reality and augmented reality tools are now being used to create immersive training experiences. This allows students to practice skills in a safe and secure, simulated environment before applying them in real-world scenarios. If your vocational school hasn’t yet adopted VR/AR technology in its classrooms, it should.
2. Emphasis on Digital
Businesses worldwide have already begun digital transformations. No matter what kind of vocation your school is training for, it should be kept in mind that the world is changing. Any student who gains digital expertise will likely have a leg-up on those who do not. Take plumbers for example. Some of the most successful plumbers are now using digital apps to boost job bookings and are using software systems to streamline or automate some tasks.
3: Solidifying Industry Partnerships
Today, more vocational training students expect to land a job right after graduation. Gone are the days when teaching skills were enough. Now, collaboration between vocational schools and industries has become more prevalent. You should be bolstering your partnerships with industry to help place your students in high demand jobs.
4. Stackable Credentials and Micro-Certs
Consider adding micro-credentials to your current programs. This credential flexibility benefits students, your school and employers, since it enables continuous learning and adaptability to jobs market demands. Plus, as an educator, you can create highly focused areas of study within the broader areas… to concentrate your students’ overall education on the particular micro-skills that are in demand.
5. Soft Skills Demand
74% of employers believe soft skills are incredibly important.[4] Skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. So, your vocational education programs should incorporate training in these areas, as well as the technical skills you teach. It will lead to better job placement for your students, and more positive testimonials about you, from them.
6. Government Support for Career Training
You likely know this already. The federal and local governments are recognizing the importance of vocational education. And this trend is likely to last. Not only because of the big lack of skilled workers in our labor force, but because vocational training helps to close skills gaps and reduce unemployment rates. If there are any government sponsored programs your school can take advantage of, do it.
So…
If you’re interested in boosting enrollments at your vocational, trade, tech school or career college, simply partner with Conversion Media Group.
Helping our clients meet or even exceed their enrollment goals is what we do!
Discover more about Conversion Media Group’s enrollment capabilities by calling us at 1 (800) 419-3201.
Or you can click HERE and an enrollment expert with get back with you ASAP.
[1] Shift in values: High school graduates flock to trade schools
[2] Many in Gen Z ditch colleges for trade schools. Meet the ‘toolbelt generation’ : NPR
[3] Press Releases | National Student Clearinghouse News
[4] Workforce Insists Job Candidates Must Demonstrate Soft Skills