The U.S. automotive industry has always been a cyclical business, but its near-collapse in 2008-09 and the subsequent bankruptcy of two of the three largest domestic automakers was more than a cyclical downturn. As light vehicle sales and production slowly recover, the industry has started to hire again, though with caution. In an industry known…

Collaborating to define clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations can help a college and its partners avoid misunderstandings and "turf" problems. In this article, the authors describe vital partnerships between community colleges and economic development organizations to foster economic growth. The authors also share some lessons…

Throughout the developing world, there is a debilitating lack of connection between tertiary education and economic growth. As a result, many tertiary institutions fail to address the particular human capital needs of the productive sector, thereby constraining economic growth, productivity and innovation. Existing employment opportunities go…

In a globalized economy, the meaning of the word "community" has changed. No businessperson today can afford to ignore what is happening outside his or her hometown. The same goes for community college executives. No community can generate economic growth without business growth. Businesses need factors of production, such as labor, capital,…

Describes the California Community Colleges' goal to advance the state's economic growth through quality economic development programs. Discusses the importance of assessment and presents the results of an outcome evaluation, stating that California will collect $1.42 in taxes over the next 10 years for every dollar it spent on economic…

Workforce development is the key to future economic growth. Community colleges stand ready to play the key role in workforce development programs across the country. For community college leaders, the connection between their colleges and workforce development is obvious. Community college leaders understand, for example, that community college…