Higher Education and Workforce Training Need Investment

The Challenge: Nevada's workforce system is not fully aligned with its evolving economy—leaving employers without skilled workers and residents without clear, accessible pathways to stable, higher-paying jobs. What do Nevadans think? Contributors described growing strain in higher education and workforce pathways, from rising costs to limited in-state opportunities and weak alignment with job needs. A nurse highlighted gaps in training infrastructure: "Las Vegas has had a medical school for 20+ years yet there is no teaching hospital. It is mind-boggling to me that to see most patients must travel to Arizona, California or Utah for specialists." Others pointed to funding challenges and barriers to access. One contributor shared: "The legislature has to fully fund when cost of living adjustments are passed by the Nevada System of Higher Education. Providing only two-thirds funds puts the universities in a bind resulting in higher tuition and cuts of programs." A first-generation college parent added: "Scholarships for local students would help, because my daughter is the first in our family trying to go to college." Across responses, contributors highlighted rising costs, limited training pathways, and a disconnect between education and employment that makes it harder to access opportunity and meet workforce needs.