In the next five years, employment in our region is expected to grow nearly 50% faster than the U.S. rate. However, there is presently a dangerously wide gap between the degrees available from local institutions and the degrees needed by our local employers. Today’s economy demands more than a skilled workforce. It demands higher thinking – and higher degrees. That’s why the Chamber is working diligently to bridge the gap between the degrees we produce and the needs of our employers into the future.