The state’s unemployment rate of 7.2 percent – the highest in 14 years – is the second worst rate in the nation
Yet many jobs are going unfilled. At the end of 2007, in fact, there were three open jobs in the state for every 10 people looking for work.
The problem is, technological advances have created workplaces that require employees to master computer and math skills. So while there are plenty of people looking for jobs, not enough of them have the required skills.
That’s why machinists/machine operators, skilled tradesmen, mechanics, production operators and laborers are all in the Top 10 hardest jobs to fill, according to a recent national survey.
In the past, necessary skills could be learned in apprentice programs, but those opportunities have all but disappeared. Given the current work force problems, however, a growing number of companies are looking back to the future.
Atrion Networking, for example, has been active in creating internships for college students to learn what it takes to work in the technology field. And it is getting help from Johnson & Wales University, which is creating coursework that reflects the demands of the workplace.
But more needs to be done, and the efforts must reach down into the secondary schools where there are plenty of students who won’t be going on to college, but will need to learn technical skills in order to get and keep a job.
The challenge is huge and it defies easy fixes. It will require the best efforts of schools and businesses to make sure crucial jobs are filled and that those who need a job can find one. Our economic future depends on it. •