At the Exceptional Women Alliance (EWA), we enable women of the highest caliber to teach each other so that each leader can achieve personal and professional happiness through sisterhood. As the nonprofit’s founder, chairman, and CEO, I feel honored to interview and share insights from some of the thought leaders who are part of our peer-to-peer mentorship.
This month I introduce you to Ena Hull, a senior executive leader who has worked in the craft and trade industry for over 20 years. During his tenure he worked with some of the largest allied health organizations and nursing schools in the country. His background includes strategic leadership, educational technology, and private equity in those fields. He presents at numerous industry conferences discussing workforce development issues and trends in the educational training space.
Question: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing higher education today?
Hull: Rising costs and student debt are a major concern. Tuition fees and associated costs can deter potential students and lead to long-term financial burdens for graduates. With student loan debt exceeding $1.7 trillion, many families are questioning the ROI of certain programs.
Q: Are college closings becoming more common?
Hull: Yes. We are seeing a decline in enrollment in traditional long-format degree programs compared to part-time skills-based training programs. Reasons for college closures include:
- Financial difficulties: Due to declining enrollment and high operating costs
- Change in academic preferences: Students prefer online platforms, hands-on training, affordable and flexible programs.
- Population changes: There is a shrinking number of college-aged students, and other changing demographics.
- Institutional challenges: Some colleges face financial mismanagement and failure to adapt to new educational conditions.
Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected education?
Hull: The pandemic has intensified existing challenges, as many institutions struggle to transition to online learning. Students now use:
- Online education, including platforms: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer flexible and affordable learning.
- Vocational and technical training: Trade schools, boot camps, job-oriented training and career-oriented training are popular.
- Other confirmations: Minor certifications and industry certifications provide educational opportunities.
- Work-based learning: Apprenticeships and internships help students gain a foothold in the workplace.
Q: How is technology and demographic change affecting education?
Hull: Institutions need to invest heavily in new learning technologies, infrastructure, training, and support. Failure to do so will result in students going elsewhere including the private sector for up-to-date training. Student demographics are changing, with many non-traditional students such as older students and online students. Institutions must adapt.
Question: And how does global competition affect higher education?
Hull: Institutions compete globally for students, faculty, and resources. This requires a clear differentiation strategy to attract the best. Aligning educational programs with the needs of the workforce is essential, ensuring that students acquire skills that are directly applicable to the job market. Institutions must also support students’ mental health. Navigating complex policy and regulatory environments adds another challenge.
Question: What differences do you see as a senior in higher education from the past to today?
Hull: In the past, higher education was policy driven. Now, it is driven by market forces and job opportunities. Students want to learn skills and enter the workforce quickly, reflecting a shift from government policy influence to market demand.
Q: Do regular college degrees still matter?
Hull: The number of college degrees is improving rather than decreasing. Despite the scrutiny, degrees still provide significant economic benefits, job opportunities, and skill development in the right areas. Other certifications such as certifications and boot camps are beneficial, especially in fields such as technology. Employers now value skills and experience more than formal qualifications, although certain specializations still require them. Over the past 10 years, many top employers in many industries no longer require a bachelor’s degree to get a job. This is a game changer in the education space.
Colleges are now competing with the private sector as many companies offer skill-based training and education programs.
Q: What is a micro-credential and where can one get one?
Hull: Mini-credentials are short, focused certifications that demonstrate knowledge of specific skills or subjects. They are flexible, often offered online, and can be combined to create multiple technologies. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer this information, as do many universities and professional organizations. They are especially important in fields like data science, digital marketing, and IT.
Question: How does a vocational education compare to a traditional college education?
Hull: Vocational education focuses on hands-on, practical training in a specific trade or profession, often leading to immediate employment. It is shorter and less expensive than a traditional college education, offering a broad, theoretical curriculum. Vocational programs are closely aligned with industry needs, providing targeted skills in high-demand fields, while traditional education prepares students for a wide range of careers. Most nurses and medical assistants receive their training at a private vocational training institution.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are unsure of their career path after high school?
Hull: Take the time to check before taking any loan! Consider a gap year, part-time jobs, or internships to gain practical experience. Seek career counseling, training, use self-assessment tools, and research different careers. Community colleges and vocational training offer flexible, cost-effective ways to explore interests. Focus on developing transferable skills and stay open to change, as career paths often evolve. Networking and continuous learning are also key to finding and pursuing a fulfilling career.
Larraine Segil is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Exceptional Women Alliance.
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