Smart Strategies to Build the Higher Education Workforce in 2026
By Jacquelyn D. Elliott, Ed.D., President and COO, Blue Rock Human Capital · Updated September 29, 2026 The short answer: Colleges and universities build a stronger workforce in 2026 by developing and promoting the entry- and mid-level employees they already have. That means clear career paths, practical skills training (including AI), manageable workloads, succession plans […]
Before You Launch Your Next Search: What Are Candidates Really Evaluating About Your Institution?
Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with and formally interview more than 100 candidates (and my team has interviewed more than 1,000) across higher education in my role as Practice Leader for Higher Education at Blue Rock Human Capital. These exchanges have included cabinet-level executives, vice presidents, deans, and administrative and […]
The Cabinet Is Changing: What AI Means for Three Critical Leadership Roles in Higher Education
Not long ago, I was speaking with a university president who asked a question that made me pause. “Everyone is talking about AI,” he said. “But which leadership roles are actually changing because of it?” It is a thoughtful question. The conversation around artificial intelligence in higher education can sometimes feel abstract. But when you […]
What Causes Salary Discrepancies Across Equivalent Roles in Higher Ed?
As anyone who’s been in the higher education field for long knows, equivalent job titles – or even similar job descriptions – don’t necessarily mean equivalent compensation. Significant differences in salary, benefits, and priorities can pose challenges for institutions seeking to fill key leadership roles like provosts, VPs of Enrollment, CFOs, and director positions. What […]
Executive Search for Higher Education: Finding the Leaders Who Shape What’s Next
In today’s Higher Education landscape, university presidents are asked to be more than academic visionaries. They’re expected to be political diplomats, financial strategists, cultural ambassadors, and operational CEOs—often all at once. In my conversations with these Higher Education leaders, one thing has become clear. The challenge today isn’t just about survival, but about effective stewardship. […]
The Future of Work and the University’s Role in Shaping a Competitive Workforce
As industries evolve and technology reshapes the job market, universities play a critical role in preparing a workforce that can meet future demands. To address this momentum, higher education institutions are adapting to evolving workforce needs by integrating emerging technologies, fostering lifelong learning, and strengthening industry partnerships. Bridging the Skills Gap Today, the skills […]