Jessica Rosenworcel

College to Career

Jeffrey Selingo, Michael Bennet, Steven Knapp, Jessica Rosenworcel, Eric Spiegel, Igor Tulchinsky

This event analyzes the collapse of the traditional four-year degree model, highlighting how socioeconomic disparities and rigid funding structures leave millions of students underemployed or trapped in "some credit, no degree" scenarios. Industry leaders and policymakers propose restructuring education through German-style apprenticeships, digital micro-credentials, and outcome-based funding to bridge the widening gap between curricula and the evolving digital workforce. Key figures including Senator Bennett and representatives from Siemens and the FCC advocate for systemic reforms that prioritize career readiness, standardize alternative pathways, and align federal incentives with proven return-on-investment programs.