WAICU President and CEO Eric W. Fulcomer

In the ever-evolving landscape of education and the workforce, the importance of higher education cannot be overstated. College degrees not only empower individuals but also play a pivotal role in shaping the economic vitality of Wisconsin and the entire nation.

Wisconsin, like many other states, faces a stark reality: a significant disparity between the demand for college-educated workers and the available talent pool. To address this gap, Wisconsin has set a goal known as  “60 Forward” which aims to increase the proportion of college-educated residents to 60 percent. This goal reflects the state’s commitment to fostering a highly skilled and competitive workforce.

By 2029, Wisconsin is projected to face a shortage of 192,000 workers with bachelor’s degrees or higher, resulting in a staggering $19.4 billion loss in economic output. This deficit not only hampers economic growth but also hinders the state’s ability to compete on a national scale.

The consequences of not meeting this goal are substantial. Fortunately, Wisconsin’s nonprofit, private colleges and universities are actively contributing to bridging this gap by producing graduates in high-demand fields such as education, business, nursing, engineering, and various healthcare professions. These graduates are essential to the state’s workforce. Private, nonprofit institutions are a market driven sector preparing the next generation of citizens to find solutions for today’s problems and the challenges of the future. 

The benefits of higher education extend beyond the state’s economy. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, twice as much over the course of their careers compared to those with only a high school diploma. This higher earning potential translates into a substantial contribution to local, state, and federal tax revenue, enabling governments to invest in critical infrastructure and services.

Moreover, college graduates tend to be more engaged citizens, voting at higher percentages and actively participating in their communities. They often give back through volunteering and supporting nonprofit organizations, further enriching the social fabric of Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (WAICU) is playing a crucial role in advancing higher education initiatives. We are collaborating with other sectors of higher education in the state to work toward achieving the 60 percent postsecondary attainment goal, with a more intentional focus on regional collaboration. Additionally, efforts are being made to facilitate student transfers and ensure degree completion, promoting accessibility and success within the higher education system.

College degrees remain a worthy investment, and the concerted, collective efforts of educational institutions, government, and society are vital to realizing the full potential of higher education in our rapidly changing world.