The New Data Paradigm

Empowering Learners and Workers in Skills-Based, Data-Driven Talent Markets

Education and workforce data in the U.S. has long been built around siloed government systems. While progress has been made, today’s infrastructure often falls short — leaving data fragmented, costly to maintain, and too often inaccessible to the very learners and workers it represents.

The New Data Paradigm, launched by the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s T3 Innovation Network, introduces a bold vision: a nationwide public-private data utility designed to place learners and workers at the center. This approach builds on existing government systems but goes further — unlocking data about opportunities, experiences, and outcomes to serve individuals first, not last.

What’s different about this new approach?

• Learner-first design: Individuals gain portable, secure access to their own Learning and Employment Records (LERs).
• Smarter connections: Improved interoperability across education, workforce, and employer data systems.
• Public-private collaboration: Shared governance, standards, and incentives for data sharing.
• AI-enabled insights: Harnessing new technologies to translate skills, improve transparency, and reduce reporting burdens.

Why now?

Shifts in federal funding and priorities, the rising costs of siloed systems, and advances in technology (like AI and modern APIs) make this the moment to rethink data. A public-private model can improve quality, expand access, and accelerate innovation while protecting privacy and security.

What comes next?

The U.S. Chamber Foundation, working with partners across education, government, and business, will advance this project through pilots, prototypes, and consensus-building — laying the groundwork for a new era of data-driven opportunity.

Download the full brief to learn more.