Florida businesses need an academically and technologically prepared workforce to succeed, which makes the strength of our higher education system a major factor in attracting new business to Florida. We are fortunate to have the Florida College System as the primary access point to higher education. Serving nearly 1 million students annually, FCS provides access to high-quality, affordable academic and career education programs that maximize student learning and success.
It is true that 98 percent of FCS graduates stay in Florida, contributing their acquired skills and training to the state’s economic development. With 28 public colleges throughout the state, the FCS has a $27 billion economic impact.
The system has been highly successful as evidenced by the many national awards and recognitions received by our institutions. We know that changing times and demographics demand that we enhance traditional, access-oriented education by ensuring our students are successful once they achieve their goal of completion and employment. FCS must respond rapidly and strategically to serve the state. We can do this in three effective ways:
Expand critical workforce areas: By expanding workforce training programs, the FCS can provide the opportunity for more Floridians to gain skills that are critical to their home region. The college system will work to respond efficiently to meet the demand of employers in 2015 by optimizing alignment of certificate and degree programs with regional workforce needs. These efforts will build a pipeline of talent.
Expand academic support: Services offered outside the classroom are critical components that drive student success. Services such as academic support, learning assistance, advising and mentoring improve a student’s ability to secure upon graduation either job placement or transfer through our seamless 2+2 to a college or university. Expanding academic support services plays a crucial role in student success and is a major focus in 2015.
Maintain affordability: A college’s capacity to serve is based on two factors — tuition and state investment. Maintaining affordable tuition is a priority for the colleges, the Legislature and Gov. Scott. Without tuition increases, we must increase our capacity to serve by committing as a state to an investment in our future talent. Florida is recognized nationwide for its overall value in public higher education, with affordable tuition being a large component. The FCS wants to ensure the cost of college is not a burden to students, and therefore needs an appropriate investment from the state.
An increased investment from the state is essential for more students to excel in Florida’s most in-demand occupations. As one of the most successful college systems in the nation and with the vital support of the Legislature and Gov. Scott, the FCS will continue to deliver the talent Florida needs to become the number one job creator in the nation.
Dr. Jim Henningsen is the chairman of the Florida College System’s Council of Presidents and president of the College of Central Florida.
