SkillsFirst

Why use SkillsFirst?
Build Resumes & Cover Letters That Work
WWU students and alumni have free access to SkillsFirst, an online tool that helps you create polished, professional resumes and cover letters that stand out. With templates designed to get through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI features that help you match your resume to any job description, SkillsFirst makes it easier to apply with confidence—and get noticed.
Student Login Instructions
- Go to SkillsFirst Student Signup page.
- Fill out Complete information using your WWU email address and creating any password you'd like.
- Go to SkillsFirst Sign in page
- Enter WWU email address and password you created previously associated with your SkillsFirst account.
Alumni Login Instructions
- Go to SkillsFirst Alumni Signup page.
- Complete information using any email address and a password of your choosing.
- Enter this code: WesternWash1
- Go to SkillsFirst Sign in page.
- Enter the email and password associated with your SKillsFirst account.
- Note: If you used SkillsFirst previously while a student, you'll need to reset your email access. Simply log into your SkillsFirst account, using your WWU email and existing password, then go through the step-by-step instructions and screenshots outlined in the Updating Email & Password in SkillsFirst User Guide.
Get Started with SkillsFirst
- Log in using the instructions above
- Click "Create a Resume"
- Select “Edit Sample” to get started
Note: You can upload your existing resume instead if you are primarily interested in using the tailoring tools. Important: When uploading an existing resume, be sure to review your content after it’s been parsed and placed into a template, as some wording may be condensed or adjusted. - Choose a template. This is the style and layout for your resume. You can switch templates at any time.
- Choose a sample. This will provide you with example content. In addition to editing the content to make it your own, you will be able to add/delete/rename headers, re-order sections, etc.
- Rename the resume to make it your own
- Begin editing each section. Remember to save your changes!
More of a visual learner? Check out the tutorial video on the SkillsFirst dashboard (once you log in)!
