The gap between the diploma and the first paycheck represents a problem for our future: fewer individuals engaged in their local markets.
This barrier thwarts economic progress for us all. It represents fewer taxpayers and active participants in any market. It also keeps the kids from moving out of Mom and Dad’s basement.
Many college and university programs in our region are doing their part to narrow the gap by emphasizing job-ready, transferable skills without abandoning the fundamental curriculum.
Consider: South University’s anesthesiology assistant program boasts nearly perfect placement. The feedback from skilled clinicians who oversee these graduates often recognize their smooth transition from the classroom to operating rooms. And after successfully launching a Pharmacy School, Presbyterian College has discussed plans to implement a physicians assistant school in the future.
Nevertheless, the inaugural 2014 Gallup-Purdue index found only 6 percent of graduates strongly agree they had a meaningful internship or job, worked on a long-term project and were actively involved in extracurricular activities.
Without widespread support of businesses across multiple industries to pick up the banner of developing the next generation of leaders, our economic recovery will likely continue to reflect volatility.
Upward trajectory isn’t inevitable for everyone, but with the right selection and reasonable care, the addition of a young associate or paid intern is low risk, high reward. With a renewed focus on hiring and cultivating young talent, businesses can play an even greater role building a solid foundation for sustainable economic activity.
For example, Manhattan Associates, a supplier of supply chain management software, offers a well-structured co-op program that allows students to gain experience testing and implementing software solutions. AirWatch, a mobile security and enterprise mobility management provider, actively recruits and retains young talent.
Moreover, this kind of mutually beneficial investment also happens on a smaller level. A Marietta law firm recently invested in a rising second-year law student from the University of Georgia, while a communications consultancy hired a recent Emory University graduate who has developed and cultivated relationships with clients around the country.
Can we bolster our incentives to encourage investments in future generations and long-term success?
Native Georgian and Chief Justice Hugh P. Thompson stated that he, like a turtle on a fence post, didn’t rise to his post at the Supreme Court of Georgia without help from mentors along the way.
To that end, a long-time Georgia Pacific employee was hired immediately following college graduation and has steadily added value to colleagues and associates ever since. And a veteran Savannah River pilot, who has guided some of the largest container ships into our region’s vital port, was brought on board in his early 20s, learning many skills on the job. These two employees have been sound investments for the enterprise, the individual and the marketplace.
Georgia has been lauded by many as the best state to do business. Let’s keep investing in opportunity and cultivating talent. Businesses can take the lead.
Zach Sprouse is a corporate communications consultant with Atlanta-based Ledlie Group.
