Labor Shortages Are a Community Challenge
Across industries, 65–83% of employers report difficulty filling open positions. Critical fields such as healthcare, IT, skilled trades, education, and hospitality are essential for economic stability, but many local students aren’t aware of these opportunities.
Communities need coordinated systems that connect education, business, and local leadership to close skills gaps and keep the economy competitive.
Why Partner With BEA
BEA helps communities turn good intentions into real, measurable systems that develop a future-ready workforce.
Partnering with BEA allows community leaders to:
Identify regional gaps and assets in workforce development
Design coordinated strategies across schools, employers, and local government
Launch scalable platforms that serve students, businesses, and schools
Attract and retain employers by offering a skilled, locally sourced workforce
Even a small commitment—mentorship, internships, or career story recordings—can influence thousands of students and strengthen the local economy.
How BEA Supports Communities
Partnering with BEA gives your company a proactive solution.
By building a coordinated, career-connected system, communities can create homegrown pipelines of talent that both meet employer needs and keep graduates in the region. The result is higher employment, stronger small businesses, and a reputation as a place where companies want to invest.
Multiply that across a region, and you’re not just helping kids—you’re shaping the future workforce and strengthening the local economy.
The impact is measurable:
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In Mississippi, every $1 invested in community college CTE programs returned $3.14 over 10 years
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95% of CTE students who did not go to college were employed within two years of high school graduation
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In Utah, 73.5% of students who concentrated in a CTE Career Pathway were placed in postsecondary education, advanced training, military service, or employment.
What Community Members Are Saying
"I'm thankful for the work that BEA is doing in our schools in connecting students with businesses. Young students are the future of our companies. If we can interact with them early in their career aspirations, then we as the business community can help guide them to the choices that best fit them in the industry in which they are interested."
Doug Woody, Bryan Construction
Opportunities for Community Leaders
Community involvement strengthens economic outcomes:
Mentorship & Internships: Support students and guide them toward in-demand careers
Career Story Recordings: Share your experience to inspire the next generation
Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, workforce boards, and local businesses to close skills gaps
Community Campaigns: Promote awareness of high-demand occupations to keep graduates local
By leading initiatives, you help create a competitive, talent-ready region while investing in your community’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions
