SkillsEngine & TSTC: Powering Mastery-Based Learning with Industry-Aligned Skills Insights

As workforce needs continue to rapidly evolve, educational institutions must rethink traditional learning models. Texas State Technical College (TSTC) has embraced this challenge head-on, pioneering an innovative transition to a fully-integrated Performance-Based Education (PBE) system. At the heart of this transformation is SkillsEngine’s powerful skills data platform, providing critical, industry-validated competencies that shape and refine TSTC’s curriculum.

For nearly a decade, TSTC has effectively used SkillsEngine’s extensive skills library and insights to keep its educational offerings closely aligned with in-state employer needs. This alignment has become even more critical as TSTC moves toward a mastery-driven learning model, allowing faster curriculum development directly informed by industry skill demands.

Katie Robinson, Associate Vice President at TSTC, emphasized the impact of this collaboration:

“As TSTC transitions to a mastery-driven learning model, SkillsEngine provides the timely insights and actionable intelligence we need to effectively build our curriculum. These skills are crafted in the language of an employer, streamlining the process of industry validation and enhancing the accuracy of output. From skills alignment, to categorization, and prioritization, having one robust platform to build from has been an invaluable resource, helping us meet — and accelerate — the time to achieve our goals.”

By leveraging SkillsEngine’s comprehensive platform, TSTC has significantly accelerated the time required to develop and refine programs that precisely reflect the current workforce landscape. SkillsEngine’s robust library of over 35,000 unique skills and more than 33,000 job profile templates allows TSTC to swiftly adapt and validate curriculum directly with industry standards and expectations.

The tangible benefits of this strategic alignment have transformed TSTC’s approach to education, creating curricula that not only meets current employer expectations but also prepares students for sustainable career growth. Students now advance based on mastery of specific competencies, gaining clarity and confidence in their learning paths, knowing each skill directly connects to employer-validated needs.

SkillsEngine’s innovative platform is integral to TSTC’s vision of responsive, competency-based education, laying a firm foundation for meaningful workforce outcomes and sets a national standard for educational excellence across the nation.

Case study completed in Fall 2024

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