Adderessing the Skills Mismatch to Boost the Local Economy
The term "Skills Mismatch" can be understood in two ways.
In its most common form, it is a technical term that refers to the mismatch of skill level between our present workforce and the required workforce of tomorrow. Assessing the exact extent of this mismatch seems to be affected quite profoundly depending on whether researchers measure the needs of all jobs in the future (including those now in existence), or just the new jobs which will be created in the future. (Fitzgerald, 1993)
The second way of understanding the term "skills mismatch" does not hinge on a consideration of "future jobs" at all. Rather, it refers to the phenomenon of so many people being unhappy or ill suited in their places of work, and the high level of under-employment.
In the latter sense, one would think that the world would be a much happier place, and the economic benefits would rise dramatically, if some great celestial referee would blow a whistle, everyone would stop what they are doing, change jobs and then start again.
The task of "Academic Advising" seeks to address this second problem, and will be addressed in addition to the traditional view.
However one defines "skills mismatch", addressing the problems associated with the term can become a central focus of attention, and even a central thrust in efforts to develop a local economy.
These sub-aspects of the use of Education and Training to boost Local Economies are listed below.