Report | September 21, 2017

Shrinking the Skills Gap in Colorado

Connecting classrooms to careers through deeper learning

Colorado is projected to face a serious skills gap in the coming decade, suffering a shortage of highly-skilled workers (those with bachelor’s degrees or higher). Economists estimate that 19 of the top 30 occupations with the highest projected skills gaps will require at least some postsecondary education, with the majority requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.

This report highlights employers’ concerns about the lack of communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills required for almost all careers today. These deeper learning skills can be taught in K-12 settings through innovative educational models.

In Colorado, 19 of the top 30 occupations with the highest projected skills gaps will require at least some postsecondary education.

Members of ReadyNation are calling on Colorado policymakers to support ongoing efforts that adequately prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. These efforts include developing effective career pathways for students by building industry-school partnerships, and providing students and their families with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about postsecondary education.

Read More About

  1. Deeper Learning
  2. Skills Gap
  3. STEM

States

  1. Colorado*