The Two-Way Street: Higher Education & Industry

It was an early morning as Jerome Manly, Executive Director of Early College and Workforce Development at Commonwealth University, and I headed to Rock Lititz for the PA Chamber Higher Education Summit. Before attending, my perception of higher education was probably similar to what many people hear in the news: college is expensive, enrollment is changing, and institutions are facing significant challenges. But the summit offered a much broader perspective on the role higher education plays in Pennsylvania's workforce future.

One of the strongest messages throughout the day was that preparing the next generation of talent cannot be the responsibility of colleges and universities alone. Business leaders, educators, and policymakers all have a role to play in building the workforce Pennsylvania needs. The summit focused on strengthening the connection between employers and higher education institutions so that academic programs align with real workforce needs, students gain meaningful experiences, and businesses have a voice in shaping the talent pipeline.

What struck me most was the idea that higher education should be a true two-way street. Industry partners can help guide program development and share emerging workforce needs. Colleges can translate that information into relevant learning experiences that prepare students for careers. Businesses can open their doors to provide internships, tours, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities. At the same time, colleges can invite employers to campus, showcase research and innovation, and create spaces for meaningful collaboration.

Yes, the conversation included college affordability and the reality that today's students will likely have multiple careers throughout their lifetime. But the answer is not for higher education to solve these challenges in isolation. The future of workforce development depends on stronger partnerships, better communication, and a shared commitment to helping students build both technical knowledge and the durable skills needed to adapt to an ever-changing economy.

As Jerome and I drove home, I found myself thinking less about the cost of college and more about its value when connected to community and industry. The summit reinforced an important lesson: for all the challenges we come across, the pathway from where we want to be and where we are, is the strongest when industry sectors work together. Building the future workforce in Pennsylvania is not the sole responsibility of higher education, but a challenge and opportunity that belongs to all of us.