This paper examines the skills required of entry-level workers and considers the school's role in helping at-risk or disadvantaged youth meet the demands of the workplace. The following topics are covered: what employers require and expect of entry-level workers; the current skills levels of at-risk youth entering the workforce; the "academics-only" approach to remedying the skills gap; and incentives to learning. The author also discusses a career-based approach that emphasizes well-structured, work-based learning and the effect of this approach on the chances of at-risk youth to move into meaningful and rewarding careers.