What “essential skills” do you see as most critical for the future workforce in New Jersey?
The essential skills for New Jersey’s future workforce are those that integrate the best of human judgment and creativity with the tools of a rapidly changing economy. Our challenge and our opportunity are to make sure every student and worker in our state has the chance to develop them.
First and foremost, critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability will be indispensable. The pace of change requires workers who can navigate complexity, pivot when circumstances shift, and apply sound judgment in real time. Just as important are communication, collaboration, and
emotional intelligence. These skills build trust, foster inclusion, and empower diverse teams to innovate together.
At the same time, digital fluency is no longer optional. AI literacy, data literacy, and the ability to leverage technology responsibly will be fundamental for workers at every level.
Finally, resilience and lifelong learning are paramount. The careers of tomorrow will look very different from today’s, and the capacity to keep learning—whether through higher education, stackable credentials, or workplace training—will determine our competitiveness as a state.
What efforts are being made to reach underrepresented communities and ensure equitable access to workforce pathways?
Equity must be at the heart of New Jersey’s workforce strategy. We know that our state’s strength lies in its diversity, and that means we must ensure opportunity reaches communities that have too often been left behind.
At New Jersey City University, we serve the most socioeconomically diverse student population of any public university in the state, with nearly 70% of our students from underrepresented backgrounds and more than half the first in their families to attend college. Our work is intentionally designed to remove barriers and create pathways—from federally funded TRIO programs and MSI/HSI grants, to the A. Harry Moore School’s LIFT Program and Boys & Girls Club partnerships that introduce career exploration as early as elementary school.
In short, the effort is comprehensive: reach into communities, remove systemic barriers, and create intentional pathways so that underrepresented students and workers not only have access to opportunity, but are supported to succeed once they get there.
