We Can Strengthen America’s Future

Speakers at ACT’s annual meeting discussed some troubling realities about education and workforce development in America.

The bad news is our dropout, remediation, and graduation rates are weakening America’s position as a world leader in education. At a time when the demand for a well-trained workforce is growing, our nation’s skill levels are declining.

The good news is that we have the power to reverse these trends. We know what we need to do to ensure America is equipped with a strong workforce that can compete in a global economy and maintain a high standard of living.

It’s a matter of taking action.

In this issue, you’ll read about educators and professionals who are addressing the crisis head on. Wyoming policymakers are linking secondary student achievement to opportunities in higher education. A leading window and door manufacturer is using WorkKeys^® to strengthen its workforce at facilities in North Carolina and Florida.

A national foundation is providing scholarships to mature women so they can prepare for new careers. Colleges in New York and Texas are collaborating with local employers to find solutions to area labor needs.

Only as more of us take on the challenges facing American education and workforce development can we sustain our competitive edge in a rapidly changing world.