By Neil Heinen Editorial Director

02/07/12

There will not be a real sense of recovery in this state until many more people are back at work. The unemployment rate is still too high and a drag on the economy. But while job creation is critically important, especially from start-up businesses, the post recession reality is that the pre-recession workforce won't cut it. Employees must think differently about the skills needed for knowledge economy jobs, and just as important employers have to get creative about filling open positions.

The UW has its obvious role in all of this. And to their credit both Madison College and Edgewood College are on top of this issue. But state initiative and resources are needed. This needs to be part of regional economic development talks as well. We'll challenge employers to look for older workers who have the experience and drive to resume work lives that have been put on hold for too long. Wisconsin is known for its work ethic. Let's translate it into The New Workforce.

Tomorrow - The Moderate Majority.