It’s no secret the Puget Sound region’s job market continues to attract high-demand talent from near and far. Seattle is now one of the top two tech markets in the nation, behind only San Francisco.
This fall, thousands of Washington students are headed to college with plans to earn a degree that will help them compete.
This new chapter brings new routines, expanded social circles and increased independence. But for many low-income and first-generation college students, it’s also more likely to prompt intense academic pressure, new or increased financial insecurity and other stressors putting them at greater risk to drop out without the credential needed to vie for a job in a globally competitive market.
In fact, this demographic is nearly four times more likely to leave school after the first year than those from more economically advantaged backgrounds.
Even with a variety of scholarships and tuition assistance, the graduation gap remains significant, leaving otherwise high-achieving, high-potential Washington students behind. And keeping the homegrown talent pool far too small for the number of open jobs.
An under-prepared workforce holds Washington back. But providing opportunity can make all the difference.
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS), a state-wide workforce development program, is aiming to help close the gap through financial support paired with powerful mentorship experiences.
In 2015, WSOS launched Skills That Shine Mentorship Program, through which many first-generation college students met the first mentor they’ve ever had—a professional who is in their field of interest.
To date, more 200 professionals across the state have signed up to participate in the program, designed in partnership with Boston Consulting Group. They represent an array of STEM and health care fields, positions of various ranks and, like WSOS Scholars, they hail from communities across the State.
Skills That Shine Mentors participate by allocating time to meet with their mentee, in person or via phone, just four times during the academic year. Professionals with current or past experience in a STEM or health care role are encouraged to apply for the 2017-18 cohort.
In total, more than 9,000 students have received WSOS funding. Over 80 percent of graduates are employed in their field or seeking an advanced degree. Ninety-one percent stay in Washington, filling critical roles and investing back in their communities.
It remains a priority and necessity for industry—both employers and professionals— to continue to invest dollars, time and expertise in our future employees, so we can grow the robust homegrown workforce that will help keep Washington’s innovation economy strong and vibrant for years to come.
Consider the impact you could make.