---
title: Lifelong Learning & Digital Credentials
description: Digital credentials support on-the-job training, skills-based learning and competency-based learning to combat the growing talent...
image: https://learn.credly.com/hubfs/5b16a5486961f183450350%20(1).webp
---
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[ Credly Blog ](https://credly-2629051.hs-sites.com/blog) Lifelong Learning & Digital Credentials
# Lifelong Learning & Digital Credentials
As the talent gap widens, lifelong learning is gaining importance. On-the-job training and skills-based learning, especially through digital credentials, address underemployment.
 Credly
 2 min read
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As the talent gap widens--there are 6.6 million open jobs in the U.S. according to the [Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/news.release/jolts.nr0.htm)--more organizations and individuals are looking to lifelong learning as a solution. Many workplaces are embracing on-the-job training to engage and upskill workers, and millennials are turning to skills-based learning to combat [underemployment](https://credly.com/blog/post/millennials-underemployment-economic-impact-skills-gap).
Continuing education--whether in the workplace, through a [professional association](https://credly.com/blog/post/associations-what-matters-most-members), or at a higher education institution--can supplement an individual’s skill set and have a big impact. According to a report on [adult training and education](https://www.insidehighered.com/sites/default/server_files/files/2017103_2016%20ATES%20First%20Look%20Report_for508c_090617.pdf) from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, 82% of adults reported that a work credential was very useful for getting a job. 80% reported the credential was helpful in keeping a job, and 81% said it keeps them marketable to employers or clients.
Adding a digital credentialing component to competency-based learning makes the skills portable, verified and secure, and digital credentials can help bridge the employee-employer communications gap in filling jobs. When jobs went unfulfilled at a Denver-based architecture firm, Colorado Community College System (CCCS) stepped in with a digital credentialing program. This work created a common language between employers and prospective employees and helped identify skills that were hiding in traditional resumes and transcripts. [Read more here.](https://credly.com/blog/post/digital_credentials_cccs_pt1)
Recognizing smaller bundles of learning with digital credentials can also keep lifelong learners engaged and motivated. Read more about how American Council on Education, a Credly partner, is using digital credentials to recognize professional and academic achievements for its College Credit Recommendation Service in this [blog post](https://evolllution.com/programming/credentials/how-digital-credentialing-is-driving-the-shift-towards-a-learning-economy/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%20Weekly%20Roundup:%20Education%20Dive:%20Higher%20Ed%2005-19-2018&utm_term=Education%20Dive:%20Higher%20Ed%20Weekender).
---
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