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Capstones are intended as culminating experiences that encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and integrative learning. This presentation will probe the connections between capstone experiences and recent studies of trends in undergraduate education. What criticisms do recent graduates and employers convey that might be addressed by capstone experiences offered locally and/or regionally? For example, a study among soil scientists identifies the lack of field, communication, and problem solving skills as the most critical areas of concern. Recent research in rangeland ecology and management points to weaknesses in geospatial technology and land management policy and law. More generally, an employer survey commissioned by the American Association of Colleges and Universities reveals innovation and problem solving as a high priority. Further, it gives a high ranking to educational practices that emphasize “application of skills over acquisition of discrete bodies of knowledge.”