Hands-On Skills Matter as Much as College Degrees, Daniel Lubetzky Tells Gen Z

In today’s fast-changing world, education is still one of the strongest stepping stones for success. Yet, according to Daniel Lubetzky, the billionaire entrepreneur and founder of KIND Snacks, formal education alone isn’t enough. Speaking to Gen Z, Lubetzky stressed that hands-on skills are just as important as college degrees, especially in an era where adaptability and real-world problem-solving matter more than ever.

Why Daniel Lubetzky’s Advice Resonates with Gen Z

Gen Z, the generation born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is already shaping the future of work. Unlike previous generations, they have grown up surrounded by technology, instant access to information, and social media platforms that encourage creativity and entrepreneurship.

But with rising tuition fees, student loan debt, and shifting job markets, Gen Z is questioning whether a college degree is the ultimate key to success. Lubetzky’s message offers both reassurance and a challenge: education is valuable, but without practical skills, it’s incomplete.

The Value of Hands-On Skills in Today’s Economy

Formal education provides foundational knowledge, but hands-on experience develops critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience—skills that employers and entrepreneurs value highly.

For example:

• Problem-Solving: Learning to fix real challenges—whether in a startup, workshop, or volunteer project—builds problem-solving abilities far beyond classroom theory.
• Collaboration: Hands-on work often requires teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution, all crucial for modern workplaces.
• Adaptability: In fast-paced industries like tech, digital marketing, and design, practical skills allow people to adapt quickly to new tools and trends.

Lubetzky himself is proof of this. While he has a law degree from Stanford, it was his practical experience in business and social entrepreneurship that helped him build KIND Snacks into a global brand.

College Degrees Still Hold Value

It’s important to note that Lubetzky isn’t dismissing formal education. A college degree continues to open doors, provide credibility, and deliver structured learning. Fields like medicine, law, and engineering require rigorous academic training.

However, he emphasizes that degrees should not come at the expense of practical experience. The perfect formula lies in combining both—leveraging the knowledge from formal education while actively pursuing real-world skills.

How Gen Z Can Balance Education and Hands-On Learning

Lubetzky’s advice isn’t just theoretical—it’s actionable. Gen Z can start building a more balanced skill set by:

1. Taking Internships and Apprenticeships – Even unpaid opportunities can provide real-world insights that no textbook can replicate.
2. Building Side Projects – From coding apps to launching small online businesses, these experiences teach problem-solving and creativity.
3. Volunteering – Community service not only makes an impact but also helps develop leadership and organizational skills.
4. Networking and Mentorship – Learning directly from professionals provides guidance and industry know-how that education often lacks.
5. Upskilling with Online Resources – Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or YouTube offer hands-on tutorials that complement academic learning.

Why This Message Matters More Than Ever

The job market is undergoing rapid transformation. Artificial intelligence, automation, and remote work are rewriting the rules of employment. Employers are less interested in just a degree on paper—they want candidates who can think, adapt, and execute in real situations.

Lubetzky’s advice to Gen Z is a reminder that true success comes from blending knowledge with practice. A diploma may get your foot in the door, but hands-on skills will keep you growing and thriving in your career.

Conclusion

Daniel Lubetzky’s message to Gen Z is clear: Don’t undervalue practical skills. A college degree is still important, but it’s not the only path to success. What sets individuals apart is their ability to combine formal education with the confidence and competence gained from real-world experiences.

For Gen Z, this means pursuing education while simultaneously seeking opportunities to apply it—whether through internships, creative projects, or entrepreneurial ventures. In a world where change is the only constant, those who master both theory and practice will lead the way.