Advancements in technology are meant to optimize work, and companies that adapt to them fast are going to have a competitive edge. With the rapid growth in technology and changing dynamics of the workforce, skill gaps are inevitable. Continued upskilling is an integral part of ensuring that your talent grows with your needs.

Filling the gap with bridge education 

Collaborating with academic institutions can be an incredibly efficient way to address skill gaps. Besides offering a well-structured opportunity for your workforce to upskill, you are also giving students and educators a better idea about the competencies needed to excel in today's workplace.

Making education accessible to everyone  

This collaboration is not just for people who are beginning their careers; both new and older employees should be trained so that their skills are relevant to today's needs. Making education accessible for everyone provides opportunities for development and opens up entry level positions.

Moreover, you'll want to provide learning and development opportunities so that your employees have clearer pathways to growth in their careers. This also prevents burnout due to under-utilization of your resources' potential.

While industry-academia partnerships have been thriving for ages, it is important that both the collaborating organizations have shared missions and goals, and gain equal value from the partnership.

Here are some ways your company can benefit:

Internships

Internships can help you identify and recruit talented students early in their careers. It is a low-stake opportunity to assess potential employees and create a strong talent pipeline. Interns can also bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the company, contributing to innovation and creativity.

Apprenticeships for credits

Apprenticeships that provide academic credits enable you to train individuals in specific skills and knowledge that directly relate to your industry's operations. This can result in a more skilled workforce that is tailored to your needs.

Mentorship and shadowing

Mentorship and shadowing programs allow employees to learn from experienced professionals in their field. This facilitates the transfer of knowledge and expertise within the company, leading to skill development, career advancement, and increased employee retention.

Tailor-made courses for company personnel

This is a surefire way to ensure that your employees receive training that directly aligns with your company's goals and objectives, allowing you to create a workforce that is better equipped to handle specific challenges and tasks.

Collaborating on research

Collaboration between company leaders and academia on research projects fosters innovation and can give your company a competitive edge in the market. You also get to leverage research findings to improve products, services, and overall business strategies.

Getting involved in shaping the curriculum

A company's involvement in shaping the curriculum can help educational programs to align with the skills and knowledge required in the industry. This produces graduates who are well prepared for the workforce, serving the much-needed purpose of reducing the gap between academic learning and practical skills needed in the workplace.

Wrapping up  

While it is beneficial for your employees to upskill, it is important that you as a company appreciate people who put in the extra effort. Incentivizing workers that contribute to training can motivate others to be a part of it.

Before you recruit candidates, assess the current skills of the workforce and ensure that you are hiring people with their career growth in mind. Using a multi-tier approach to hiring and building a workforce with people at different points in their career journey can help foster a culture of continuous learning.