Career Readiness

Are you Career Ready? 

There are eight essential competencies that students need to develop and demonstrate to be Career Ready for successful transition into the workforce. Based on extensive research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), every graduate should attain these eight competencies: Critical Thinking, Oral and Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration, Digital Technology, Leadership, Professionalism/Work Ethic, Career Management, and Global/Intercultural Fluency along with their field of study. Learn about each competency below. 

At Mat-Su College our goal is to help our students attain these competencies in the classroom, through an internship experience, and through workshops offered through Student Services Career Development office, or one-on-one coaching with the Career Development Advisor. Students and alumni are encouraged to utilize the free services offered to you throughout the year to help you successfully transition into your career. 


  • Critical Thinking/Problem Solving

    Illuminated light bulbExercise sound reasoning to analyze issues, make decisions, and overcome problems. The individual is able to obtain, interpret, and use knowledge, facts, and data in this process, and may demonstrate originality and inventiveness.

  • Oral/Written Communications

    Quote Box and PenArticulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to persons inside and outside of the organization. The individual has public speaking skills; is able to express ideas to others; and can write/edit memos, letters, and complex technical reports clearly and effectively.

  •  Teamwork/Collaboration

    Two peopleBuild collaborative relationships with colleagues and customers representing diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, religions, lifestyles, and viewpoints. The individual is able to work within a team structure, and can negotiate and manage conflict.

  • Digital Technology

    ComputerLeverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. The individual demonstrates effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies.

  • Leadership

    Multiple peopleLeverage the strengths of others to achieve common goals, and use interpersonal skills to coach and develop others. The individual is able to assess and manage his/her emotions and those of others; use empathetic skills to guide and motivate; and organize, prioritize, and delegate work.

  • Professionalism/Work Ethic

    Paper and watchDemonstrate personal accountability and effective work habits, e.g., punctuality, working productively with others, and time workload management, and understand the impact of non-verbal communication on professional work image. The individual demonstrates integrity and ethical behavior, acts responsibly with the interests of the larger community in mind, and is able to learn from his/her mistakes.

  • Career Management

    Brief case with check markIdentify and articulate skills, strengths, knowledge, and experiences relevant to the position desired and career goals, and identify areas necessary for professional growth. The individual is able to navigate and explore job options, understands and can take the steps necessary to pursue opportunities, and understands how to self-advocate for opportunities in the workplace.

  • Global/Intercultural Fluency
    Value, respect, and learn from diverse cultures, races, ages, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. The individual demonstrates, openness, inclusiveness, sensitivity, and the ability to interact respectfully with all people and understand individuals’ differences.

Adapted from NACE Career Readiness Competencies

Sample Alt Text for Figure
  Did you know the top attribute Employers look for in your resume is Problem-Solving Skills by 91.2%, followed by teamwork, 86.3%? (NACE Job Outlook 2020 Survey report)