Tear
the Paper Ceiling

Workers with experience, skills, and diverse perspectives – held back by a silent limitation.

It’s time to tear the paper ceiling and see the world beyond it.

I pledge to shatter stereotypes and misconceptions and to see people for all of their experiences, skills, and diverse perspectives.

I pledge to recognize the untapped potential of the 70+ million American workers who are STARs – Skilled Through Alternative Routes – so they can flourish.

I pledge to tear the paper ceiling, to see the world beyond it, and to let STARs shine.

Sign the pledge to tear the paper ceiling

Let’s send a clear message that it’s time to tear the
paper ceiling.

Thanks for signing the pledge.

You’ve taken the first step in tearing the paper ceiling. Stay tuned for important updates, information and stories related to the campaign.

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Changing
the future
of work.

Upward economic mobility for millions of American workers has been hampered by myths and stereotypes. The research tells a different story, and now we're working together to build a new national narrative.


workforce inclusion

Leading the tear

Brought together by the shared insight that myths and misperceptions limit upward economic mobility for the 50% of workers in the U.S. who don't have a college degree, nonprofits Opportunity at Work and the Ad Council lead the coalition that is uniting to tear the paper ceiling.

Opportunity at Work

Opportunity at Work engages with corporate, philanthropic, and workforce partners to directly address the barriers that face STARs - workers who are Skilled Through Alternative Routes, rather than through a bachelor's degree. Their landmark research has brought new light to the skills and potential of the 70+ million workers in the U.S. who are STARs, while its innovative talent marketplace, Stellarworx, enables companies to more easily find and hire STARs.

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The Ad Council is where creativity and causes converge. Bringing together the most creative minds in advertising, media, technology and marketing to address many of the nation's most important causes, the Ad Council has created some of the most iconic campaigns in advertising history. Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Smokey Bear. Love Has No Labels. Their innovative social good campaigns raise awareness, inspire action, and save lives.

Watch the videos

Tear the Paper Ceiling – Anthem :60 | Skills-First Hiring

Tear the Paper Ceiling – Story Unfold :60 | Skills-First Hiring