The suit of pentacles represents the element of earth: material energies; the desire to  nourish and nuruture; the manifestation of abundance.
 
With the Eights in the Minor Arcana, energy is shifting. We are learning. Things are on the move.
 
The Eight of Pentacles represent improvements in your skill set. You are learning and you are working. You are on the path to become an expert in your field. This can be the card of pursuing more education, of going back to school.
 
Be open to learning and improving.
 
You go from the apprentice stage, to journey man, to master.
 
Just remember that this path requires time, effort, and commitment.