LINCOLN- Dr. Josie Schafer, who heads the Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, presented an analysis of the state’s workforce shifts and challenges to the NU Board of Regents. Schafer pointed out that the state is heavily losing individuals with at least bachelor's degrees.

The worsening trend over the past decade is particularly alarming as 65% of jobs in the state and nation by 2030 likely will require at least some higher education. She said that currently about 33% of Jobs in Nebraska are staffed with someone with a bachelor's degree, and those numbers will increase over the coming years.

Schafer notes that the state is growing in population, even if that is mostly in the most populated counties. The problem is the number of people leaving the state after their education or the lack of people coming to Nebraska to complete their education. State Sen. John Arch, speaker of the Legislature, in earlier remarks told the Regents that the state’s workforce and the university system’s role is a topic that has risen in appreciation in the Unicameral.

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