In a world where education and industry are evolving at different speeds, this talk explores the core ideas behind “Connecting the Skills Gap – Aligning Academic Learning with Industry Needs.” It raises a fundamental question: Are today’s graduates truly prepared for tomorrow’s workforce? With automation, remote work, and global competition transforming job markets, this talk highlights the growing disconnect between classroom learning and real-world expectations. Audiences are invited to reflect on how we define employability, the role of soft and technical skills, and what it means to be “career-ready” in a constantly shifting landscape. This talk challenges educators, students, and employers to rethink collaboration and curriculum design. Offering practical insights and a call for greater alignment, this TEDxUniversityofHertfordshire talk inspires anyone invested in the future of work and learning to become part of the solution. Julian Greenaway is a Compliance Manager at HSBC’s Global Headquarters in London and a Herts Law graduate. He holds both an LLB and LLM in Legal Practice. With a passion for bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, Julian advocates for career readiness and practical skills. His TEDx talk offers insights into how students can position themselves successfully in today’s evolving professional landscape. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx