LINCOLN- On Monday, Gov. Pillen announced the creation of a new group, made up of representatives from the state government, chambers of commerce, education, and private business, to examine the state's pressing workforce shortage, and perhaps find answers as to how it can be reversed. "We need to solve this problem if we are to continue to grow Nebraska," said Pillen in a statement.

Gov. Pillen acknowledged that many Nebraskans over the last decade have left for employment in other states. Ernie Goss of Creighton University, an institution that produces an annual economic forecasting report, said that Nebraska's low unemployment rate, while seemingly a positive, becomes a barrier when local businesses and companies want to expand their operations.

"It's always one of the biggest issues for companies: finding and hiring qualified workers," said Goss. Pillen, according to the statement, will act as chairman of the working group. Among those also in the new group is NU President Ted Carter, as well as Sens. Kathleen Kauth, Lou Ann Linehan, and Tom Briese. Representatives from Byran Health, Buildertrend, Chief Industries, First National Bank of Omaha, and the Lincoln and Omaha Chambers of Commerce will also offer assistance.

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