Vermont’s aging population and demographic shifts have decreased the supply of available workers to support Vermont’s businesses and economy. In the spring of 2020, Vermonters took another economic hit when we lost nearly 61,000 jobs due to the pandemic.
Workforce: A recent report by the University of Vermont stated: “[Vermont’s] educational systems are not sufficiently designed for preparing Vermont’s young people to find meaningful and well-paying career pathways.” Vermont needs to align its secondary and technical education centers around current workforce development needs and opportunities and ensure that they are available statewide.
“The principal goal is to increase access to training and higher education for all Vermonters. Increased training and education help individuals improve their quality of life, expand career opportunities, increase pay opportunities, and advance personal goals.”
Broadband Access: The digital divide calls further attention to the existing wealth and income gaps in our communities; many people, including those of color, people with disabilities, low-income households, and rural communities, overwhelmingly impacted by the digital skills gap, are at risk of being left behind.
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