Stacking Credentials

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Building a career by stacking credentials
A credential is a formally acknowledged level of achievement such as a certificate or college degree. Most people grow their careers by adding new credentials in one or more of these ways:

Stairs
This is the most familiar way to stack credentials, where each step builds to the next in an officially recognized process. For example, a registered apprenticeship leads to journeywork and up, and some certificates from Utah technical colleges can be applied toward college degrees.

Nest
The eggs represent different, independent credentials united by one common theme: you. Software developers often use this strategy, starting by mastering one set of computer languages to start their careers then adding others to take on a wider range of projects.

Cake
Professionals of all sorts engage in ongoing career development to update their skills and qualify for promotions and other opportunities. For instance, a nurse may earn certification in a new technique or technology, and a licensed teacher may gain an endorsement.

Resources

Apprenticeships, the Next Stackable Credential?