Ready to level up your future? A recent report suggests a significant shift in the Utah job market, and it's time to pay attention. The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute's findings paint a clear picture: a vast majority of jobs will demand advanced education in the coming years.
Specifically, the report projects that a staggering 70.6% of Utah jobs will require some form of postsecondary education by 2031. This isn't just about getting a job; it's about securing a good job. The study, commissioned by Envision Utah, emphasizes the crucial link between higher education and a better quality of life. Think higher earnings, reduced poverty, improved health, and greater community involvement.
“This research reinforces that higher education will continue to be a reliable path for getting a good job, even as our economy changes over the next decade,” said Travis Allred, senior education program manager at Envision Utah.
But here's where it gets interesting: Utah already boasts impressive postsecondary completion rates, ranking third in the nation with a 61.7% attainment rate. This is a testament to the value Utahns place on education. However, the report also highlights the need to increase these numbers further, especially considering the disparities among different demographic groups within the state. Andrea Brandley, the report's author and a senior education analyst at the Gardner Institute, stresses that a skilled workforce is the backbone of Utah's economic success.
So, what does this mean for you? It means investing in your education is more critical than ever. Whether it's a certificate program, a college degree, or advanced training, the path to a fulfilling career in Utah is increasingly paved with postsecondary education.
And this is the part most people miss... While the report emphasizes the importance of higher education, it also acknowledges that higher education will need to continue to evolve to meet the needs of Utah’s future economy.
What do you think? Do you agree that higher education is the key to future job success? Are there alternative paths to good jobs that the report might be overlooking? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
