In an increasingly connected landscape, science, technology, engineering, and math skills are highly coveted. But research shows the U.S. workforce is lagging when it comes to STEM skills, revealing big gaps, especially among the nation’s young people. According to a report released by Education Testing Services, which surveyed 16- to 34-year-olds across 22 countries, Americans scored close to last in the category of “problem solving in technologically-rich environments.” Fortunately, there are several low-cost tools available to managers to help propel their workforces into the 21st century and remain competitive despite that problem. Peer-to-peer development apps help employees connect and collaborate in a high-tech space and learn skills from one another while developing professionally. Another, more traditional avenue is to utilize online courses taught by experts. Many online vendors are available, and courses are typically affordable. And after taking such courses, managers can employ app-based testing to boost a workforce’s tech skills. Studies have shown that testing supports long-term information retention. By simply meeting employees where they are, management can leverage training opportunities. Most employees use smartphones, and by making training materials available on such devices, employees can spend their free time learning new skills.