What is the Skills First Specialty Credential?
This credential empowers HR leaders to:
Implement skills-first hiring and internal mobility practices
Align job architecture and performance systems with actual capabilities
Build a business case for adopting skills-first strategies
Navigate change across teams, stakeholders, and systems
Designed by and for HR professionals, the credential includes tools, real-world examples, and a practical roadmap for putting skills-first strategies into action. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into transformation, this credential helps you move your organization forward.
Why it works
42%
Decrease in turnover: Companies adopting skills-first decrease turnover by 42% (McKinsey, 2023)
19x
More candidates: Removing degree requirements unlocks 19x more candidates (JFF, 2023)
30%
Lower cost-to-hire: Skills-first hiring reduces cost-per-hire by 30% (SHRM, 2023)
For your organization
For your organization
Support your HR team in operationalizing skills-first across talent acquisition, development, and advancement.
- Build internal capability and alignment
- Access tools that translate strategy into practice
- Signal your commitment to innovation and workforce mobility
Order for yourself
Order for yourself
HR professionals ready to take the lead in building a more agile, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.
- Grow your influence as a strategic HR leader
- Equip yourself with actionable skills-first frameworks
- Receive a recognized credential from the SHRM Foundation
This component of the Skills First Future was co-developed with Competency-Based Education Network, Education Design Lab, Grads of Life, Jobs for the Future, Opportunity@Work, and US Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Founding Investors
Founding Partners
