July 31, 2012
 

Anthony P. Carnevale - Nicole Smith  

The South is caught in a low-skill/low-wage trap. But which came first: low skills or a low wage economy? The South's current predicament is reminiscent of the old adage about the "chicken or the egg." So, which came first, and what does it mean for southern states' economies in the coming decade? 

 

                  

         Executive Summary                Full Report                     Press Release                   Media Coverage

 

A Decade Behind projects the growth of jobs and education requirements in the southern U.S. over the coming decade. In the report, we find that 57% of all jobs in the South will require some form of postsecondary education or training, compared to 65% for the nation.

 

The major findings of the report are detailed below: 

 

 

Did You Know?

Nursing will grow the fastest among healthcare occupations, by 26 percent, but that won’t be enough to meet the demand. Barring some change, the shortfall will exceed 800,000 jobs, meaning the United States will have to continue to seek nurses outside its borders.


- Healthcare