Economic & Workforce Development

Higher Education and the Economy
Higher education institutions statewide participate in a wide range of activities designed to promote or enhance economic development. There are numerous macro economic benefits associated with higher education in Washington.

Innovation Research Initiatives/STARS
The HECB also provides administrative support for two economic development initiatives involving higher education, the Washington Department of Economic Development, regional and local governments, business and industry.

In addition, the HECB monitors how well institutions are meeting projected needs as part of its responsibility to ensure accountability in higher education. More on accountability, monitoring and reporting can be found in the About Our System section of this website.
 

HECB Reports

HECB reports, policy briefs, and other research are used by policy makers and higher education institutions to develop strategies to meet future state workforce needs and fill existing workforce shortages.

A Skilled and Educated Workforce 2011 Update (Feb. 2012)

Regional Needs Assessment (2011)

Brief: Why Increasing Educational Attainment is so Important for Creating Jobs (2010)
The Impact of Interstate Migration on Human Capital Development in Washington (2010)

Higher Education Support for the Washington Aerospace Industry (2009)

A Skilled and Educated Workforce (2009)
An assessment of the number and type of higher education and training credentials required to meet employer demand.

Findings of the Economic Needs Assessment Workgroup (2008)
 

Governor's Office

The Governor’s GMAP reports on Education and Economic Vitality

The Next Washington: Growing Jobs & Income in a Global Economy 2007-2017 (2007)
 

Washington State Employment Security Division

Washington State Green Economy Jobs (2010)
 

Washington Economic Development Commission

The Washington Innovation Economy: New Economic Strategy for Prosperity (2009)