This brief by Bain & Company discusses a growing jobs mismatch that is leaving many young people without decent pay and opportunities for advancement, despite employers facing record talent shortages. It finds that degrees alone aren’t delivering - nearly half of college graduates earn less than a living wage, while skills-based learning experiences boost earnings for all. The brief draws on research and case study examples to underscore the importance of a robust, career-connected learning model that blends academic rigour with practical, real-world preparation.