Looking across the country, there are a range of current and future challenges influencing America’s ability to remain competitive in the race for talent. Companies everywhere are growing and the most crucial factor influencing corporate decisions on where to locate or expand operations is the ability to recruit the best workforce. Therefore, regions with the most skilled workers will not only grow more organically but also have other companies, both national and international, opening facilities there. 

Last week the administration launched what it termed “the next step” in its economic agenda: a sweeping, administration-wide effort to equip the American workforce to succeed in the modern economy. To propel this initiative forward, it is seeking advice and cooperation from leaders in business and education. Our message at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is simple: Count us in. We look forward to continuing our work with the administration on this issue of critical importance to the entire business community.

Over the past five years or so, workforce data has been sending a strong message: there is a difference between the expectation that employers have of the skills and competencies that a new employee will have on day one and what the employee is actually capable of doing. The only way to ensure skills translate into successful career paths is to provide students and their families with exposure to and awareness of the jobs and career paths available across industries right in their own community.