Pre-1900s
Most people learned their skills through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Only a select few pursued formal higher education, mainly for specialized fields.
1760 - 1900
The Industrial Revolution demanded specialized skills, but many were still learned through on-the-job training. Higher education remained limited to elites, while most students learned by doing.
Early to Mid-20th Century
As economies became more complex, formal education expanded. Yet, even in technical fields, practical skills learned on the job remained critical for success.
1940s - 1960s
After WWII, the GI Bill fueled mass college enrollment. Higher education expanded rapidly, but its structure remained largely unchanged, focused more on theory than practical, real-world skills.
1970s - 2000s
Despite globalization and rapid tech advances, the college model stayed traditional. Meanwhile, industries required workers to adapt quickly, often needing skills that can only be learned on the job.
2000s - Present
In today’s world, many employers prioritize skills over degrees. Modern careers demand adaptability, but the college system is slow to evolve, making hands-on learning more critical than ever.
Pre-1900s
Most people learned their skills through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Only a select few pursued formal higher education, mainly for specialized fields.
1760 - 1900
The Industrial Revolution demanded specialized skills, but many were still learned through on-the-job training. Higher education remained limited to elites, while most students learned by doing.
Early to Mid-20th Century
As economies became more complex, formal education expanded. Yet, even in technical fields, practical skills learned on the job remained critical for success.
1940s - 1960s
After WWII, the GI Bill fueled mass college enrollment. Higher education expanded rapidly, but its structure remained largely unchanged, focused more on theory than practical, real-world skills.
1970s - 2000s
Despite globalization and rapid tech advances, the college model stayed traditional. Meanwhile, industries required workers to adapt quickly, often needing skills that can only be learned on the job.
2000s - Present
In today’s world, many employers prioritize skills over degrees. Modern careers demand adaptability, but the college system is slow to evolve, making hands-on learning more critical than ever.
