The recession that began in 2008 and the advancement of automation have forced American workers to simultaneously compete with one another and with technology.

Source: Education Week

During the recession the pace of high school, college and graduate level workers entering employable ranks held firm while technology kept improving, influencing job opportunities and advancement prospects in existing careers. Recent graduates lucky enough to obtain a job entered the work force with lower wages, or in positions unrelated to their skills, degrees or training. Many remained in those jobs for 2-3 years before breaking in to their desired career paths; others are still there. When workers are jobless or stuck in jobs outside their fields, their skills erode and make it ever harder to get back on track.

Career professionals and business owners are challenged by many economic influences, but none as powerful as technological advancement.