Build Back Better: The Importance of Alternative Skills Training
The Challenges Faced by Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STAR) Workers
Upon my arrival in the United States from the Dominican Republic, securing a technology-related position proved difficult. Employers prioritized conventional qualifications over demonstrable abilities.
Overlooked Skills and Experience
Instead of acknowledging my existing skillset, potential employers focused on my evolving English proficiency and the absence of a formal college degree. My extensive experience in technology and electronics was disregarded due to its non-traditional nature.
A Common Obstacle for STAR Workers
This experience mirrors the struggles of over 70 million workers in the U.S. who have acquired skills through alternative routes (STAR). Specifically, there are 13.5 million Hispanic STAR workers facing similar hurdles today. To address the widening “skills gap,” employers must adapt their hiring practices.
Initial Job Search Difficulties
My initial attempts to gain employment in the IT sector were consistently unsuccessful. Applications for roles ranging from customer service to computer repair were rejected without consideration of my capabilities.
Demonstrated Abilities Ignored
Had employers engaged in conversation, they would have discovered my early aptitude for technology – repairing devices for neighbors starting at age 12. I had also completed coursework in networking, fundamental coding, cybersecurity, scripting, and computer maintenance.
Persistent Barriers to Entry
Despite continuous improvement in my English language skills and mastery of coding and cybersecurity principles, companies failed to recognize my potential. My unconventional background triggered screening processes reliant on degree prerequisites, preventing me from showcasing my talents. I encountered biases from hiring managers unfamiliar with candidates like myself.
Limited Employment Options
Consequently, I was relegated to jobs in cleaning services, factories, and fast-food restaurants, where my skills felt underutilized and wasted.
A Turning Point Through Support Initiatives
Fortunately, my situation improved through mentoring and hiring assistance provided by a program stemming from President Obama’s TechHire Initiative. This support enabled me to gain a foothold in the industry.
Current Role and Missed Opportunities
I am currently employed as a cybersecurity associate, but my career trajectory could have commenced much earlier with a more open-minded approach from employers.
A Widespread Issue
Unfortunately, my story is representative of the experiences of countless other STAR workers, particularly within the Hispanic community. Many do not benefit from the same fortunate circumstances.
The Stark Statistics
The data reveals a concerning trend: approximately 31 million workers – including a significant number of Hispanic individuals – possess the skills necessary for higher-paying positions, yet remain overlooked.
Wage Disparities and Untapped Potential
Research indicates that 114,000 Hispanic workers currently employed as food and hospitality service managers have the qualifications to transition into community and social services management roles, which offer nearly 50% higher wages.
Disproportionate Challenges for Hispanic Workers
Hispanic STAR workers are less likely than their white counterparts to secure promotions to higher-paying jobs, and even when they do, they often receive lower compensation for their skills.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Employers must actively create more accessible pathways for all workers. The need for this change has been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disproportionately affected Hispanic and Latino communities.
Economic Hardship
Hispanic or Latino workers accounted for nearly one-quarter of the initial job losses during the pandemic. As of recently, their unemployment rate remains at 8.6%, compared to 5.7% for white workers. The impact has been particularly severe for Hispanic and Latina women, who represented 45% of all job losses in December.
The Paradox of Labor Shortages
These challenges arise despite employers reporting difficulties in filling open positions, even as unemployment persists and job postings return to pre-pandemic levels. The narrative surrounding skills gaps, potentially exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis, continues to be promoted by employers.
The True Cost of Ignoring STAR Workers
These perceived gaps are projected to cost the U.S. economy $1.2 trillion over the next decade, but are largely a result of employers overlooking workers who have acquired skills through alternative routes.
Rethinking Hiring Practices
By reevaluating hiring criteria, such as degree requirements, employers can more readily identify qualified candidates and enhance diversity simultaneously. These changes can foster broader systemic improvements.
A Multiplier Effect
My personal success extends beyond my own career advancement. Hiring STAR workers creates a positive ripple effect within communities.
Community Empowerment
I established the Rhode Island Group for Hispanic Technology (RIGHT) to provide training in fundamental computing, coding, cybersecurity, and digital literacy – all delivered in Spanish – to empower other members of my community.
A Call to Action
To truly “build back better,” employers must actively seek out and hire more workers who have gained skills through alternative pathways. They must broaden their definition of employability and recognize the diverse qualities that contribute to a successful employee.
The Untapped Potential of Hispanic STAR Workers
Those who fail to adapt will continue to miss out on the talents of the more than 13 million skilled Hispanic STAR workers like myself.
