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Up-Skilling: Build the Skills to Shape Your Career Future

In today’s world of work, staying competitive means being proactive about growing your skills. Whether you’re exploring a new career path, preparing for a promotion, or simply want to stay sharp, up-skilling helps you be prepared for what’s next. Learn more about what up-skilling is, how to get started, and where to find resources to build both soft (durable) and hard (technical) skills.

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Need help with creating an up-skilling plan? Career Services offers lifetime support for all UNLV students and alumni. Schedule an appointment through Handshake or contact us at careerlifedesign@unlv.edu.

What Is Up-Skilling?

Up-skilling means learning new skills or improving existing ones to meet the demands of today’s workplace. It’s about filling gaps, staying current, and positioning yourself for growth.

Different Types of Skills

  • Hard (Technical) Skills: These are technical, job-specific abilities (e.g., data analysis, coding, graphic design, project management software).
  • Soft (Durable) Skills: These are transferable strengths like communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability.

How to Get Started With Upskilling

  • Reflect on Your Goals: What roles or industries interest you? What skills do they require?
  • Identify Your Skill Gaps: Review job descriptions, talk to a career coach, or take a skills assessment to pinpoint areas for growth.
  • Start Small, but Stay Consistent: Choose one or two skills on which to focus. Dedicate time each week to learning or practicing them.
  • Apply What You Learn: Seek ways to practice—through internships, part-time work, volunteer roles, or projects.

Examples of Up-Skilling Soft Skills

  • Communication: Join a public speaking group (e.g., Toastmasters), take an online business writing course, or practice giving presentations in class.
  • Problem-Solving: Try case study competitions, strategy games, or design thinking workshops.
  • Teamwork: Get involved in student organizations or collaborative volunteer efforts.
  • Adaptability: Challenge yourself to learn in new formats (e.g., online learning, hybrid projects) and reflect on what you learn from change.
  • Leadership: Seek mentorship, or take on small leadership roles in your community or at work.

Examples of Up-Skilling Hard Skills

  • Digital and Tech Skills: Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, edX, and Google Certificates offer courses in coding, data analytics, marketing, Excel, and more.
  • Industry Tools: Learn to use software common in your field (e.g., Salesforce, Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD). Many offer free or student licenses.
  • Project Management: Explore tools like Asana, Trello, or Slack, and consider project management certifications (e.g., CAPM, Agile).
  • Languages and Analytics: Apps like Duolingo for languages or Khan Academy for math and statistics can help build foundational skills.

Additional Up-Skilling Opportunities