The idea of a single lifelong career is fading. Economic shifts, automation, and even personal reinvention mean that many people will switch fields multiple times in their lives. But while change can be exciting, rebuilding a career often comes with fear, financial strain, and the challenge of starting over.
Barriers Along the Way
Cost of retraining: Tuition, certifications, and unpaid time off add up.
Recognition of prior learning: Experience doesn’t always “count” on paper.
Confidence gaps: Going back to school at 35—or 55—requires resilience.
Systemic access issues: Not everyone can take advantage of programs or flexible pathways.
Stories of Reinvention
From oil workers training as wind turbine technicians, to parents re-entering the workforce after raising children, to midlife learners diving into coding bootcamps—career rebuilding reflects both necessity and possibility.
The Opportunity
Supporting career changes requires more than retraining programs. It’s about:
Flexible schedules and online learning.
Financial supports and affordable tuition.
Recognition of real-world skills.
Employers who see value in diverse career journeys.
The Big Question
How do we normalize career reinvention as a strength, not a setback—and design systems that support people in rebuilding without losing years of stability?
Career Changes and Rebuilding
The New Normal of Career Shifts
The idea of a single lifelong career is fading. Economic shifts, automation, and even personal reinvention mean that many people will switch fields multiple times in their lives. But while change can be exciting, rebuilding a career often comes with fear, financial strain, and the challenge of starting over.
Barriers Along the Way
Stories of Reinvention
From oil workers training as wind turbine technicians, to parents re-entering the workforce after raising children, to midlife learners diving into coding bootcamps—career rebuilding reflects both necessity and possibility.
The Opportunity
Supporting career changes requires more than retraining programs. It’s about:
The Big Question
How do we normalize career reinvention as a strength, not a setback—and design systems that support people in rebuilding without losing years of stability?