Principles of Policy Design for Connecting Education to Work. Policy Brief

Overview & Synopsis

In today's evolving economy, state policymakers, education leaders, workforce system leaders and employers are all looking for opportunities to meet rapidly changing workforce needs. Economists project that shortages of workers with postsecondary education -- some college, an associate degree, bachelor's degree or higher -- could lead to nearly $1.2 trillion in lost revenue over the next decade. To mitigate the shortage and avoid economic losses, both existing and future workers will need more education and training. The World Economic Forum projects that at least 54% of workers will need significant work-relevant education in the next five years -- with over half of these individuals requiring six months or more of education and training. State policymakers recognize the economic imperative to ensure that education and training are connected to jobs. In response, they are forging stronger connections between education, workforce and employers at state, regional and local levels. Policymakers are also acting to expand secondary and postsecondary career and technical education, promote access to postsecondary programs and engage employers through work-based learning and apprenticeships. Yet systems and initiatives are not always fully connected; and access to postsecondary education continues to be out of reach for many people, especially individuals from a lower socioeconomic status. This Policy Brief, informed by a group of education and workforce leaders, explores three principles to guide policy considerations for state leaders working to develop intentional, outcomes-focused connections between postsecondary education and work.