While considering how to bring Ohio into the 21st century, we should seek ways to modernize our education system to help create high-tech jobs. In an attempt to keep up with our changing economy, Ohio has been developing high paying jobs in the information technology industry, as well as in education and health care.
According to the Stateline Midwest publication, more than half of the new competitive jobs of our modern era will require a postsecondary certificate or degree. The changing job market will create a need to retrain for new careers and update job skills. Flexibility and alternative forms of education will be a trademark of the 21st century education, and community colleges will emerge as a key to making education accessible to the masses.
While considering ways to maximize our education potential in the 21st century, we must think about the advantages of the privatization of higher education. We have outstanding private colleges, universities, vocational schools and career colleges right here in Ohio. While not forsaking the education and research role of our public universities, providing incentives for students to utilize the physical plants and faculty of private institutions will be essential for meeting the demands of a competitive global market.
The U.S. Department of Labor has predicted that over the next 30 years, there will be a labor shortage of more than 35 million skilled and educated workers. For this reason, Ohio’s legislators must strive to provide those sought after individuals to increase our state’s competitiveness and attract technological opportunities. If we hope to make Ohio a valuable contender for jobs and entrepreneurship, we must start by modernizing our education system and maximizing our state’s competitive ability.
If you have questions regarding this issue or any other policy matter, I may be reached by calling my office at (614) 466-1366 or by writing me, Representative Clyde Evans, at 77 S. High St., 13th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.
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