Unlocking Potential: How Rural Workers Can Thrive with Better Tech and Training

Summary:

Rural workers face more limitations in employment opportunities than urban counterparts.
60% of rural workers feel pursuing a career is out of reach.
73% of rural residents now have high-speed internet.
Investment in broadband infrastructure and professional networks is essential.
There is a significant interest in entrepreneurship among rural workers.

Overview

A new report highlights the challenges and opportunities for rural workers striving to thrive in their hometowns. The Generating Rural Opportunities in the Workforce report, a collaboration between the University of Phoenix Career Institute and the Center on Rural Innovation, reveals several critical insights:

Employment Limitations

Rural workers are more than twice as likely to feel limited in their employment opportunities, with 60% believing that pursuing a career is out of reach.
Nearly 70% would consider leaving their community for better job prospects, compared to just over half in urban areas.

The Technology Gap

The knowledge economy has disproportionately affected rural areas due to a lack of technological infrastructure. While 73% of rural residents now have high-speed internet, this still lags behind urban (77%) and suburban (86%) counterparts.
Amanda Weinstein, director of research at the Center on Rural Innovation, emphasizes the need for better internet access and workforce development.

Workforce Development Needs

With the rise of remote work, rural workforce development must focus on national and global opportunities rather than just local labor needs.
Raghu Krishnaiah, COO of University of Phoenix, warns of an impending employment cliff due to the retirement of the baby boomer generation. Investing in the rural workforce can benefit both workers and employers.

Optimism and Opportunities

Rural workers remain optimistic about their career futures (68% vs. 71% for non-rural workers) but feel uncertain about staying in their hometowns.
There is significant interest in entrepreneurship among rural residents, but a gap exists between their aspirations and available tools and opportunities.

Solutions and Support

Continued investment in broadband infrastructure and building professional social capital are essential for supporting rural workers.
About 50% of rural workers feel they need to develop skills for networking, with 40% lacking the necessary resources. Establishing mentorship programs and local networking events can bridge this gap.
Employers and institutions are encouraged to help rural workers find the right pathways for skills development and foster entrepreneurship.