Oregon's talent pipeline can't keep pace
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Oregon isn't producing enough college graduates to keep up with the number of jobs here that require higher education, according to a new state-mandated report highlighted by the Oregon Journalism Project.
Why it matters: The state has long relied on in-migration — attracting college-educated workers from elsewhere — to bolster its economy, but that strategy has since stalled due to waning population growth and public universities drawing fewer out-of-state students.
By the numbers: Oregon employers annually generate roughly 78,000 job openings that require college credentials, according to OJP. However, the state produces only about 52,000 graduates — making a gap of 26,000 workers, give or take.
- Meanwhile, only about 50% of Oregon high school students enroll in college each year, compared with 58% nationally, according to OJP.
Yes, but: Many of those Oregonians who do attend college don't stick around.
- 55% of University of Oregon students and 48% of Oregon State grads move out of state largely for better job opportunities, per the report.
- Plus: More than 825,000 Oregonians have attended college but never earned a degree, according to a National Student Clearinghouse report cited by OJP.
The intrigue: Health care is a particular sore spot for the state. Despite being one of Oregon's fastest-growing industries, we rank near the bottom nationally in training nurses and other health care workers for the job.
What we're watching: The report warns Oregon's workforce problem could get worse — raising the stakes for Gov. Tina Kotek, who in her reelection bid has made economic growth and workforce development central to her agenda.