The Next Step: The Future of Higher Education

West Virginia’s industries are evolving, and accompanying this progress is a host of new and unique needs within the state’s business community. With the growth and shifts in dynamics, more jobs are available, raising the question of how the state will supply a large enough work force to get the work done. As the demands of the world market expand and technology continues to change, the creation of specialized jobs is producing an immediate need for specialized training.

Strong Foundations: STEM in West Virginia

Across West Virginia, young people are aiming for greatness. Many of them are considering futures in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, which helps lay a strong foundation for West Virginia’s economic future. According to a 2011 senior opinion survey by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC), most students in West Virginia who plan to pursue a degree in a STEM field were strongly prepared for postsecondary education.