How Workers Can Stay Competitive
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Artificial intelligence and automation are changing how many jobs are done.
A new survey from the University of Phoenix highlights how hiring leaders view online credentials in today’s workplace.
The survey found 78% of hiring leaders say workers with online educational credentials stand out because they bring new and emerging skill sets.
98% of hiring leaders also say online degrees and credentials are more credible now than they were 10 years ago.
Hiring leaders reported that employees with online credentials can contribute to increased productivity, faster skill acquisition, and more qualified candidates.
Workers with these credentials also stand out for their technical skills, ability to use online collaboration tools, and willingness to continue professional development.
Looking ahead, 85% of hiring leaders said their industries are likely to increasingly consider candidates with online credentials over the next 10 years.
They cited reasons for the increased credibility of online education, including improved technology for delivering online programs, higher quality standards among providers, and better alignment with professional requirements.
John Woods, an artificial intelligence expert, noted: “With every advent of new technology we often see a lot of change and we see jobs certainly that are displaced and there’s a lot of fear of that, but with each of these waves of change, we’ve also seen the creation of a lot of new jobs… different jobs that don’t exist today.”
The survey was conducted online in the United States from January 14–30, 2026, among 502 full-time human resources and learning and development professionals at companies with at least 1,000 employees.
