4 EDUCATION AND TRAINING: PATHWAYS TO BETTER JOBS

Innovative technology has been changing the nature of work across industries and occupations. Indeed, as the previous chapter shows, the US has not lacked for innovation over the last four decades. Inventing ways of accomplishing existing work, new business models, and entirely new industries drives rising productivity and new jobs. But innovation in technology alone will not generate broadly shared gains absent complementary and reforms. It is equally important to invest in educating and training the country's workforce to ensure that workers have the skills and opportunities to fill jobs that are in demand. Training workers can also improve access to good jobs for workers who may face barriers to these jobs, and it can also help improve the quality of existing jobs by creating opportunities for career ladders. This chapter reviews the critical role education and training institutions play in creating and shaping the work of the future and highlights in particular innovative new approaches to skills development for adult workers.