Success in the future workforce will require more than academic achievement—it will demand adaptability, problem-solving and a commitment to lifelong learning. Entrepreneurs, who constantly navigate change and uncertainty, have a unique perspective on the skills that will matter most. We asked business leaders: What is the most critical skill students need to succeed in the workforce, and how can they best develop it?  Their insights offer valuable guidance for the next generation as they prepare for the careers of tomorrow.

Once a person wins the chance for the position, the most critical skill is to “learn how to learn.”

Learn the company’s culture and expectations. Learn to be a positive resource with passion!

– David Ayers, President & CEO, Flagler Broadcasting

I would say, the thing most needed is grit or stick-to-itiveness. As a business owner I am a constant problem solver. Things don’t work as they should—problems arise, and instead of getting frustrated or quitting, you dig in and solve the problem. Ask others for help—look at things from a different angle. Don’t give up just because it’s hard or you made a mistake. Keep going. Some of the most successful people have so much failure in their story, but they took that failure and figured out a solution.

– Danielle Brooks, Beekeeper & Owner, Honey Truck Co.

As the rate / pace of change accelerates with the advances in AI and robotics, adaptability and coachability are the most critical skills for the modern workforce. Those who learn, unlearn and relearn—while staying open to feedback—will lead. Build them by embracing challenges, staying curious and taking action.

– Raghu Misra, Founder at the link

I believe the most critical skill students need to succeed in the workforce is effective communication. This includes an understanding of other people and a desire to increase one’s emotional intelligence, which is increasingly difficult in a digital world and economy. They can best develop this by joining organizations and clubs while they are still students that require them to work in group settings, speak publicly, communicate in writing, lead, solve problems and get outside of their comfort zone.  

– Viv Helwig, President, Vested Metals

As an entrepreneur, the most critical skill students need to succeed in the workforce is adaptability. In an ever-evolving world, quickly learning new things, adapting rapidly to change and pivoting strategies are of utmost importance. Students should seek diverse experiences such as internships, freelance work or collaborative projects to develop this skill effectively.
By developing a mindset open to change and resilience, students will be better equipped to navigate and thrive in today’s dynamic and unpredictable workforce environment.

– Amy Workowski, President, The W Agency

The advice I give the children now who are preparing for a life in the trades is dedication to your craft. The simplest thing I can tell the children is choose the trades because it is what you want to do. Don’t choose them because it’s the easy way to go.

I actually find that the students who qualify for college and are successful are the same ones who can choose the trades and be successful. In a nutshell, dedication to your craft, effort and diligence are the keys to success.

– Joseph Wright, President, Quantum Electrical Contractors, Inc.