Skills Lab

As workforce demands evolve at an unprecedented pace, the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) is committed to ensuring that students and lifelong learners are equipped with the skills required for success in today’s job market. The UNO Skills-Based Learning Framework, led by the UNO Skills Lab, is a forward-thinking model that aligns education with the dynamic needs of employers—bridging the gap between learning and labor.

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What Is the Skills-Based Learning Framework?

The framework is a comprehensive, six-part model designed to identify, develop, verify, and continuously improve the skills students and learners need to thrive. Through collaboration across academic units and with industry partners, UNO is delivering relevant, high-value, and verifiable skill-building experiences for all.

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Six Core Elements of the UNO Skills-Based Learning Framework

1. Identifying Skills & Trends

UNO's Skills Lab synthesizes insights from:

• Employer advisory boards

• Labor market analytics

• Industry and workforce reports

• UNO faculty and program leadership

This research feeds into the UNO Skills Report, an annual publication that highlights high-demand skills across Omaha, Nebraska, and beyond. The report helps ensure that UNO's educational offerings are directly aligned with workforce realities—today and tomorrow.

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2. Acquiring Skills Through Multiple Pathways

The framework offers flexible, accessible routes for acquiring skills:

• Course-Embedded Skills: Skills integrated into academic coursework and verified through class assessments.

• Skills Lab Programs: Self-paced, skill-focused modules offered through the Skills Lab.

• Credential-Based Pathways: Microcredentials, certificates, and professional learning programs with embedded skill training.

• Experiential Learning: Real-world experiences—internships, service learning, co-ops—that build job-ready skills.

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3. Verifying Skills with Digital Badges

At the core of the framework is UNO’s digital badging system, which provides a portable, verifiable record of skills learned:

• Stackable: Build and layer badges over time

• Shareable: Display on resumes, LinkedIn, and career platforms

• Portable: Housed in a “digital backpack” learners carry throughout their career journey

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4. Serving Students & Lifelong Learners

UNO’s Skills-Based Learning Framework supports both degree-seeking students and non-degree learners:

• For Students: Skills are embedded into academic programs, aligning with workforce and industry expectations.

• For Credential Learners: Professionals and adult learners in microcredentials or continuing education programs also gain verified skills and badges.

UNO’s approach fosters a lifelong learning culture and reinforces the university’s mission as a workforce development leader.

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5. Engaging Business & Community Partners

UNO works closely with employers and community leaders to ensure skills training remains practical, recognizable, and relevant:

• Co-develop and co-brand skill pathways with local employers

• Align skills training with regional economic development goals

• Respond to community-identified needs with agile program design

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6. Driving Continuous Innovation

The Skills Lab embraces ongoing refinement through:

• Annual labor market and skills trends analysis

• Employer and industry feedback

• Student and alumni success data

By staying responsive and data-driven, UNO ensures its framework evolves in tandem with the demands of the modern economy.

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Why It Matters

UNO’s Skills-Based Learning Framework is not just about education—it’s about preparing a future-ready workforce. It empowers learners with the tools to succeed, gives employers the talent they need, and positions UNO as a leader in skills-based, lifelong education.

Join us in shaping a workforce that’s adaptable, skilled, and ready for the future.