● Employers who practice skill-based hiring focus on an applicant’s demonstrated skills (through certification or past work), as opposed to their formal education level or degree attainment.
○ Skill-based hiring is an expansive approach that considers applicants who don’t fit the traditional template for a role (like a college degree) yet have skills and other experiences that can be applied to the job.
● Ultimately, skill requirements enhance the workforce by creating a market where talent is recognized based on abilities rather than academic achievement. 

 ● According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), one in every 7 jobs in the country were filled using skill-based hiring last year.
● This approach opens up the workforce to a diverse range of capabilities and perspectives by removing a requirement that poses a barrier to many candidates who are not able to complete a degree.
● Additionally, according to Workforce Strategies, Inc. (WSI), corporations who implement skill-based requirements for careers are likely to see an increase in efficiency due to a better alignment between workforce needs and properly skilled employees.
● The shift toward skill-based hiring emphasizes the value of hands-on experiences and demonstrated abilities which increases accessibility for job seekers. 

● Capital Area Michigan Works! offers several services and supports multiple initiatives that aid job seekers in connecting with skill based positions.
○ CAMW! has opportunities available to provide tuition scholarships through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to individuals in need of skill enhancement.
■ Opportunities under the WIOA Act include apprenticeship programs, which cover on-the-job training and classroom instruction with a full-time wage and benefits.
○ CAMW! provides personalized career counseling, skills assessments and the opportunity to speak with career advisors about resume writing, job search strategies and more.
○ CAMW! holds weekly training programs and skill development workshops at the Lansing AJC and collaborates with local businesses and educational institutions to offer unique development opportunities.
● CAMW! actively engages with local employers to stay informed about employment trends and in-demand skill requirements, which allows us to learn what skills employers in our region are in highest need of and help jobseekers develop those skills.
○ CAMW! hosts frequent Employer of the Day events with local businesses to showcase available positions in our region and provide an easily accessible networking opportunity for job seekers.
● To view more of CAMW!’s job search services, visit camw.org/career-seekers/job-search-resources or follow CAMW! on social media to receive current updates on upcoming networking events, workshops and popular job postings. Teri, feel free to expand and add additional information or thoughts. 

● According to Michigan Government data, advanced manufacturing, computer systems, healthcare skills and trades expertise, like HVAC services, are in high demand across the state. ○ In the capital area, medical assistance is in the highest demand.
● CAMW! helps to promote high-demand skills by connecting job seekers to job postings and training programs.
○ In the Weekly Hot Jobs report, CAMW! features current job openings in five skill categories – business, healthcare, trades and transportation, information technology and manufacturing, and include positions that do not require a formal degree.
○ CAMW!’s Employer of the Day events and weekly skill workshops also serve as relevant and accessible opportunities to connect with businesses offering skill requirement positions.
● To prepare job seekers for applying to skill requirement jobs, CAMW! works closely with local educational institutions to offer certification courses and skill enhancement training. 

● Job seekers who are looking for skill requirement positions should actively network through job and resource fairs, social media and applying consistently to job postings.
● Building a strong portfolio and resume centered around specific skills will help showcase an individual’s abilities to employers.
○ Portfolios are an important addition to any job application, especially skill-based positions, because they showcase evidence of the applicant’s skills through work samples.
○ In addition, gaining experience through volunteering and internships will strengthen and contribute valuable content to a job seeker’s portfolio and resume.
● Job seekers should also look for opportunities to acquire or develop skills through online courses, local training programs and workshops.
● Capital Area Michigan Works! offers a variety of training, informational, networking and workshopping opportunities that support job seekers seeking skill requirement positions. To learn more, visit camw.org or call 517-492-5536 to get connected with a staff member.