Bridging the Middle-Skills Gap: Connecting a Diverse Workforce to Economic Opportunity through Certificates and Associate's Degrees

Abstract

There is a wide gap in America's middle-skills economy. On one side are people searching for economic opportunity, striving to make a good living with hard work, on-the-job experience, and a few years of formal postsecondary education or training. On the other side are employers, who are willing to pay high wages for skilled workers who can fill jobs in high-demand middle-skills occupations. Education and training programs serve as the bridge between these potential workers and employers, but this bridge is in need of repair. Despite an ample number of both aspiring workers and projected job openings, there are not enough middle-skills credentials (certificates and associate's degrees) awarded to meet the substantial expected employer demand for workers with these credentials in many occupations. This report takes a close look at the gaps between the potential middle-skills workforce and high-paying middle-skills jobs. Bridging the gaps between workers and opportunities will be critical to sustaining a strong American economy and building communities where everyone can thrive. Addressing multiple challenges at once--including credential shortages and unequal access to opportunity based on a person's race/ethnicity and gender--can create mutually beneficial gains for workers, employers, and the nation. Doing so is imperative to reduce economic inequality, continue to lead the world in innovation, and maintain high standards of living and access to opportunity for all.