That’s the advice we need to be giving each and every Michigan student now, as jobs requiring only a high school diploma are about to become a relic of the past.
Our latest study shows the state is generally prepared to meet the demand for high-wage jobs over the next three years. However, the trend is changing – and fast. As soon as 2018, the best paying jobs are going to require more education and training.
Jobs requiring only a high school diploma are expected to drop by more than 19,000, while jobs requiring an Associate’s degree or higher are expected to grow by 21,000. This ground shift in workforce needs will be accelerated by demographic trends, including an aging workforce, a shrinking talent pipeline, and low educational attainment.
It truly is a perfect storm.
To get ready to meet it, we need to ensure today’s students keep learning after high school. It doesn’t matter whether they pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers or advance in non-STEM disciplines-they need to pursue additional education.
Right now, many of Business Leaders for Michigan’s efforts are focused on talent development. To see why, check out the full copy of our latest workforce report.