Explore Critical Career Skills: A path to workforce readiness

Workforce demands evolve at a rapid pace—and we’re evolving our programming to align with the needs of today's learners. Our new program is the next generation of the Communication Skills for Business (CSB) program. It enhances workplace readiness, employability, and professional development by broadening the scope of our foundational communication skills training, and introducing a new exam: .

Why the shift to Critical Career Skills?

As technology advances, industries require a workforce skilled not only in foundational communication but in . The shift to Critical Career Skills (CCS) is our strategic response to the demands of a fast-moving job market. By focusing on important cross-industry skills relevant to both academic and professional learners, across sectors, we’re equipping them to meet the diverse needs of today’s employers.

This integration of diverse skill sets under one umbrella allows for a more holistic approach to workforce readiness and professional development, making the Critical Career Skills program a comprehensive solution for those looking to excel in their careers. It prepares learners for current industry needs and helps them adapt to future challenges. Empower learners with essential workforce skills

The Critical Career Skills (CCS) program equips learners with the key competencies today’s employers prioritize. Together, these exams within the program offer a comprehensive approach to professional development, helping ensure that learners are well-rounded and ready to excel in any industry.

The Professional Communication certification trains on the communication skills employers consistently rank as top priorities. Once learners master these skills, they’re workplace ready—able to , and navigate career challenges with confidence.

The Generative AI Foundations exam positions learners at the cutting edge of a rapidly emerging field. It provides a solid grounding in generative AI enhancing their ability to adapt in a tech-driven job market, and gives them .

Three ways to implement the Critical Career Skills program

By integrating the CCS program into existing curricula and development plans, educational institutions and enterprises can align organizational objectives with individual learning goals.

  • Using Critical Career Skills exams as final assessments in relevant courses, such as business communication, marketing, or technology, not only validates learning, it provides a recognized credential that enhances employability.
  • Aligning Critical Career Skills certifications with existing course objectives enhances the relevance and value of the curriculum, helping ensure learners gain both theoretical knowledge and practical certifications.
  • Using Critical Career Skills resources for professional development, in workshops or supplemental learning modules, keeps employees up to date on the latest industry trends and gives them essential career skills.

Preparing today’s learners for tomorrow’s career

The Critical Career Skills program actively prepares students to excel in a competitive job market. By integrating essential exams like Professional Communication and Generative AI Foundations, the program equips learners with the skills that employers value. And it offers educators and learning and development managers a comprehensive tool to enhance employability, workplace readiness and career advancement. In an evolving job market, the program trains learners on the critical career skills to keep them ahead of the curve and ready for future challenges.


Learn more about how the  program can enhance learner success.