At the Exceptional Women Alliance (EWA), we enable high level women to mentor each other to enable each leader to achieve personal and professional happiness through sisterhood. As the nonprofit organization’s founder, chair, and CEO, I am honored to interview and share insights from some of the thought leaders who are part of our peer-to-peer mentoring.

This month I introduce to you Ena Hull, an accomplished higher education executive leader who has worked in the vocational and trade industry for over 20 years. During her tenure she worked with some of the largest allied healthcare and nursing school organizations in the country. Her background includes strategic leadership, education technology, and private equity in those spaces. She presents at many industry conferences discussing workforce development issues and trends in the education training space.

Q: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing higher education today?

Hull: Rising costs and student debt are a major concern. The expense of tuition and associated costs can deter potential students and lead to long-term economic burdens for graduates. With student loan debt surpassing $1.7 trillion, many families question the ROI for certain programs.

Q: Are college closures becoming more common?

Hull: Yes. We see declines in enrollment for traditional long format degree programs versus short-term skills-based training programs. The reasons for college closures include:

• Financial strain: Due to declining enrollment and high operational costs
• Shifts in educational preferences: Students prefer online platforms, vocational training, more affordable and flexible programs.
• Demographic changes: There is a decreasing number of college-age students, and other changing student demographics.
• Institutional challenges: Some colleges experience financial mismanagement and failure to adapt to new educational trends.

Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact education?

Hull: The pandemic intensified existing challenges, with many institutions struggling to transition to online learning. Students now use:

• Online education, including platforms: Platforms likeCoursera, edX, and Udacity provide flexible and affordable learning.
• Vocational and technical training: Trade schools, boot camps, hands-on and career-focused training are popular.
• Alternative credentials: Micro-credentials and industry certifications provide educational opportunities.
• Work-based learning: Apprenticeships and internships help students gain a foothold in the workforce.

Q: How are technology and changing demographics impacting education?

Hull: Institutions need to invest significantly in new learning technologies, infrastructure, training, and support. Failure to do so will result in students going elsewhere including private industry to secure relevant up-to-date training. The student demographic is shifting, with more non-traditional students such as adult learners and online learners. Institutions must adapt.

Q: And how is global competition affecting higher education?

Hull: Institutions are competing globally for students, faculty, and resources. This necessitates a clear differentiation strategy to attract the best. Aligning educational programs with workforce needs is crucial, ensuring students acquire skills that are directly applicable to the job market. Institutions must also support students’ mental health. Navigating complex policy and regulation landscapes adds another layer of challenge.

Q: What do you see as the biggest difference in higher education from the past to today?

Hull: Previously, higher education was driven by policy. Now, it’s driven by market forces and job opportunities. Students seek to learn skills and enter the workforce promptly, reflecting a shift from government policy influence to market demand.

Q: Is the traditional college degree still valuable?

Hull: The value of a college degree is evolving rather than diminishing. While there’s scrutiny, degrees still offer significant economic benefits, career opportunities, and skill development in the right areas. Alternative credentials like certificates and bootcamps are gaining traction, especially in fields like tech. Employers now value skills and experience over formal degrees, although certain professions still require them. Over the last 10 years, many top employers in a wide range of industries no longer require a bachelor’s degree to secure employment. This is a game changer in the education space.

Colleges now compete with private industry as many companies offer skills-based training and educational programs.

Q: What is a micro-credential and where one might obtain one?

Hull: Micro-credentials are short, focused certifications that demonstrate proficiency in specific skills or subjects. They are flexible, often offered online, and can be combined to build broader expertise. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer these credentials, as do many universities and professional organizations. They’re particularly valuable in fields like data science, digital marketing, and IT.

Q: How does vocational education compare to traditional college education?

Hull: Vocational education focuses on hands-on, practical training for specific trades or professions, often leading to immediate employment. It’s shorter and less expensive than traditional college education, which offers a broader, more theoretical curriculum. Vocational programs align closely with industry needs, providing targeted skills for high-demand fields, whereas traditional education prepares students for a wider array of careers. The majority of nurses and medical assistants receive their training from a private vocational institution.

Q: What advice would you give to students unsure of their career path after high school?

Hull: Take time to explore before taking on any debt! Consider a gap year, part-time jobs, or internships to gain practical experience. Seek career counseling, mentorship, use self-assessment tools, and research different careers. Community colleges and vocational training offer flexible, cost-effective ways to explore interests. Focus on developing transferable skills and stay open to change, as career paths often evolve. Networking and continuous learning are also key to discovering and pursuing a fulfilling career.

Larraine Segil is founder, chair, and CEO of The Exceptional Women Alliance.

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