Contact:
Elizabeth Fairchild
efairchild@businessfwd.org
(202) 861-1270
Washington, D.C. — Today, Business Forward issued a survey report featuring business leader recommendations for reforming education to prepare for the future of work. Through a series of virtual roundtables, we spoke to small business leaders around the country about workforce development and the role of education. Workforce Development and Education Pathways presents what they had to say, alongside best practices from some of America’s most respected companies and data on education reform and local job markets.
“For years, we have seen how business leaders are well positioned to talk about education reform. They can identify and prioritize in-demand skills for local schools, and understand how good schools are a competitive advantage for their workforce and communities,” explained Liz Fairchild, executive director of Business Forward. “Now, those same employers facing talent shortages want to provide opportunities for local workers to develop skills and find meaningful work.”
A recent poll found that 94% of workers say that professional development opportunities provide them with a reason to stay with their employer. Six in ten workers report that they have not been adequately supported with opportunities for development through their employer. Fixing the talent pipeline requires an investment in upskilling the current workforce so that well-prepared employees can excel in their jobs.
Download the survey report to learn how small business leaders support fixing the talent pipeline so that well-prepared employees can excel in their jobs.
ABOUT BUSINESS FORWARD FOUNDATION
The Business Forward Foundation is an independent research and education organization that takes a business-minded look at policy issues affecting America’s economic competitiveness. Our work combines insights and advice from business leaders across the country with rigorous policy analysis. Through white papers, issue briefs, conference calls, and other events, we educate policy makers and the public about climate change, immigration reform, infrastructure investment, the future of work, and other critical issues.