They go by a variety of names—industry-recognized credentials, industry-valued certifications, competency-based credentials—but at Bossier Parish Community College, we refer to them as industry-based credentials (IBCs) and these third-party assessed awards have currency among employers.
Higher education institutions identify knowledge, skills, and abilities that they aim to instill in their students, preparing them for both professional and personal success. Examples of such core competencies include, but are not limited to, the following: industry-specific technical skills, critical thinking, communication skills, problem solving, collaboration and teamwork, ethical reasoning, information and digital literacy, cultural competence, adaptability, resilience, and lifelong learning.
At BPCC, we’ve recognized the growing importance of the IBC and have worked closely with employer partners to align and embed IBCs into our curricula. Today, though, we’re taking this work a step further by embracing the IBC as a core competency that we want all our graduates to possess.
To help ensure that graduates from BPCC are indeed adaptable and resilient in the workplace, we introduce them to industry-based credentials that they acquire at various points of their certificate, diploma, and degree programs. In doing so, we prepare our students for a world of work that will expect continuous personal and professional development and third-party validation of skills developed. IBCs often expire, as they should, due to ever-changing job roles; by keeping IBCs current, graduates practice the habit of being a lifelong learner.
Industry-based credentials are certifications that demonstrate an individual’s mastery of specific skills and knowledge relevant to a particular industry or job role. These credentials are developed in collaboration with experts to ensure they meet current market needs and standards. IBCs are designed to reflect the skills and competencies that employers seek, ensuring that graduates are job-ready and equipped to meet specific job requirements. Candidates with IBCs often have a competitive edge in the job market as these credentials signal to employers that the individual possesses relevant skills and is committed to professional development.
By introducing BPCC students to IBCs early and often during their academic programs, we aim to produce graduates who understand the importance of skill enhancement and lifelong learning. IBCs help to ensure that individuals are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in their careers, while also helping employers find qualified candidates to meet their needs. Embracing IBCs that are directly applicable to the workplace enhances the relevance of community college curricula. Through active program advisory committees, colleges like BPCC regionalize their curricula and the IBCs embedded within them to ensure that our graduate meet specific needs within our regional economy. This supports our mission to prepare graduates who possess the skills and knowledge that employers are actively seeking.
For example, a student pursuing an associate’s degree in Computer Information Systems at BPCC, will also earn IBCs to include CompTIA IT Fundamentals+, A+, Network +, and Security+ just to name a few. Aa another example, a student earning the Career and Technical Certificate in Fiber Optics Technology (an accelerated program consisting of three courses) will also earn six IBCs awarded by the Fiber Optic Association. This not only enhances their learning experience but also makes them more competitive in the job market.
At BPCC, we’ve adopted the IBC as a core competency for our graduates and seek for every student to be introduced to this method for identifying tangible proof of skill mastery. Various studies have demonstrated that students who earn industry-based credentials alongside their degrees are more likely to secure jobs, command higher salaries, and experience career advancement. Employers often prioritize candidates who can demonstrate specific competencies over those with general educational qualifications. The tangible proof of skill mastery provided by IBCs also boosts students’ confidence and gives them a distinct edge in job interviews.
General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) is an industry partner that works closely with BPCC. Jay Johnson is GDIT’s Staff Vice President for Technology Shared Services, and he provides the following perspective on the role of IBCs in the workplace:
“GDIT depends on institutions of higher learning to educate the future workforce in technical and other essential skills allowing to them to succeed in today’s demanding workplace while also preparing them to grow into the roles of tomorrow. In today’s fast-paced operational environment, employers need new talent to hit the ground running. Employers also recognize that not all higher education degrees are created equal. IBCs solve both of these challenges by providing employers with confidence that applicants have the skills to deliver specific capabilities critical for mission success.
Additionally, in today’s economic climate, many community college students must work while going to school. Here again, IBCs enable students to demonstrate acquired skills long before they graduate with their degree. Consequently, the IBC enhances employment opportunities, earnings potential, and career development while students continue their higher education journey. BPCC’s partnership with GDIT to employ targeted IBCs that align to our mission needs demonstrates the institution’s commitment to ensuring that their students are immediately employable in the market.”
The incorporation of IBCs into community college curricula also has implications for economic development. As communities strive to attract and retain businesses, having a skilled workforce is paramount. Communities with strong educational programs that integrate IBCs often see an increase in job creation and a reduction in unemployment rates. Additionally, businesses benefit from having access to a qualified workforce that can adapt to changing industry demands, leading to greater innovation and competitiveness.
BPCC will continue to work closely with industry partners to embed relevant credentials into our curricula; we see this as a transformative approach that addresses the skills gap, enhances student employability, fosters industry partnerships, and supports economic development. As higher education adapts to the evolving workforce landscape, BPCC will continue to see the strategic integration of IBCs as promoting a core competency aimed at preparing students to be resilient, adaptable, lifelong learners.
Dr. Rick Bateman is Chancellor of BPCC