Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy: Higher Education and Business Partnerships Lead the Way

Abstract

The educational and human capital requirements of our increasingly innovation-driven economy is helping to forge crucial partnerships to keep our economic future bright. Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy offers a compelling guide to this critical work.” - Richard K. Miller, President, Olin College of Engineering “Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration and crossing boundaries. We need the collaboration. And the stronger the collaboration, the stronger our society and economy will be.” -Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, President, University of Maryland, Baltimore County “Business leaders must develop clear pathways to STEM careers. This book provides a framework for how business, education, and communities can cultivate a sustainable pipeline of STEM talent.” -Michael Norris, COO, Sodexo What will it take to close the skills gap and lead the STEM workforce revolution? Science, technology, engineering, and math are at the heart of the 21st century jobs-driven economy, challenging education institutions and companies to train and source an increasingly technical workforce. New models of partnership drive scalable solutions that engage underrepresented communities and equip students with the skills and competencies that companies demand. Aligning corporate, education, and community partners requires that we rethink and redesign the system that supports STEM education and workforce preparedness. What’s at stake? Nothing less than the sustainability of our schools, the innovative engines of our businesses, the prosperity of communities, and the global competitiveness of our economies.