As our economy continues to expand and evolve, we must realign our higher education programs to better meet the demands of the workforce. Currently, we face a shortage of workers in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, life sciences and engineering.
These essential industries require well-trained, highly skilled professionals. This session, we took significant steps to align higher education with industry needs, ensuring students are prepared for high-demand, high-paying careers. By shifting funds to programs that equip students with the skills needed in Utah’s growing industries, we’re strengthening our workforce, stimulating the economy and creating more opportunities for Utahns to build successful futures here. These changes provide job security, help Utahns afford homes and promote familial support and direct community involvement.
Additionally, by supporting work-based learning opportunities like internships and apprenticeships, we help individuals gain hands-on experience and develop the practical and technical skills they need to excel in their chosen field.
With strategic planning and focused action, we will empower and help prepare Utahns for high-demand careers, fuel economic growth and ensure a prosperous future for our children, families and communities.
2025 Legislation Highlights
- H.B. 265 Higher Education Strategic Reinvestment directs higher education institutions to develop a strategic reinvestment plan that shifts funding from low-demand areas to the fields most in need of a skilled workforce. The Board of Higher Education will then distribute funding to education institutions according to their reinvestment plans. Additionally, this bill limits the total number of credits required to obtain a bachelor’s degree to 120 hours. It directs the Utah Board of Higher Education to create a pathway for students to pursue fast-tracked three-year programs, helping them enter the workforce sooner.
- H.B. 260 First Credential Program expands on the success of the PRIME program to provide Utah K-12 students with industry-recognized certifications that lead to education and career opportunities. Credits earned are fully transferable across Utah’s higher education and technical colleges, and scholarships are available for students completing their first credential, reducing barriers to further education and workforce readiness.