Rise Together

Indiana has 220,000 open jobs. Utah has 107,000. Despite strong local economies, they are facing unprecedented talent shortages which highlights a pressing need for talent. The solution: International Newcomers. Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb from Indiana and Republican Gov. Spencer Cox from Utah advocate for states to have the authority to sponsor visas based on local needs to help attract and retain talent drives growth. They believe that actionable state-level immigration sponsorship is required to address job shortages effectively and sustainably. Want to learn more about why transformation is important to actualize the workforce of the future? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/ecaCz3jA The Washington Post #transformationtuesday

On the tree-lined streets of St. Louis, a groundbreaking initiative is underway to transform a shrinking city by welcoming 2,000 immigrants this year. Amidst a nationwide debate on immigration, cities like St. Louis are embracing international newcomers as a vital solution to labor shortages and reversing decades of population decline in the state. From IT technicians like Ruben Leon, who has found hope and opportunity in his new home, to businesses eager to fill critical roles, this initiative demonstrates the immense potential of integrating immigrants into our workforce. Spearheaded by the International Institute, this initiative showcases how embracing skilled immigrants can rejuvenate economies and transform shrinking cities. With an ambitious goal to attract 15,000 newcomers by 2030, St. Louis is setting a precedent for how proactive immigration strategies can drive positive change. Want to learn more about the importance of immigrants in the workforce? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/g4EvitxH Financial Times Eva Xiao Taylor Nicole Rogers International Institute of St. Louis Arrey Obenson #transformationtuesday

Filling crucial job gaps, immigrants have driven job creation and economic growth, easing wage pressures and contributing to reduced inflation. Heidi Shierholz from the Economic Policy Institute points out that the surge in foreign-born workers has been vital in the development of this economic strength. Since February 2020, 2.8 million new prime-age workers have entered the US labor force, with nearly all of them being international newcomers. In fact, they comprise 18.6% of the workforce, filling essential roles from hospitality to agriculture. For instance, Jan Gautam, CEO of Interessant Hotels in Orlando, relies on immigrants for 85% of his staff, while at Flood Brothers farm in Maine, half of the staff is foreign-born. Research shows that immigrants play a crucial role in the economy by increasing the supply of workers, thereby enabling higher job creation without contributing to inflation. The Brookings Institution research, for instance, reveals that immigration has allowed job growth to double without overheating the economy. As the US continues to navigate economic challenges, it is clear that immigrants are indispensable. Want to learn more about the importance of immigrants in the workforce? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/eVpVtZwE? AP News Paul Wiseman Gisela Salomon Chris Rugaber

The conversation around immigration often zeroes in on fears of job competition and wage impacts. Wharton professor Britta Glennon, however, sheds light on the value immigrants bring to the US workforce and economy. Glennon’s research highlights that skilled immigrants do not take jobs away from American workers; instead, they drive business success and job creation. Immigrants are 80% more likely to start their own businesses compared to US-born citizens, and their presence significantly boosts productivity and innovation. For example, nearly 60% of AI PhD graduates in the U.S. are immigrants, showcasing their pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge technology and helping the US remain competitive. Despite these benefits, the U.S. immigration system struggles to meet the high demand for skilled talent. Quotas and visa caps lead to lengthy wait times, particularly for workers from countries like India, with projected waits exceeding 100 years for green cards. This inefficiency could force U.S. companies to relocate jobs or delay crucial projects, undermining our global competitiveness. Glennon advocates for smarter immigration policies that align with business needs and global talent flows. By reforming visa processes and addressing the skilled worker shortage, the U.S. can enhance its innovation, attract top talent, and maintain its leadership in key industries. Want to learn more about the importance of immigrants in the US workforce? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/eR7CmQKu. Britta Glennon Knowledge at Wharton

Congress's Chips and Science Act, passed in 2022, aims to boost US semiconductor manufacturing with $30 billion in subsidies and $25 billion in loans. This ambitious initiative is set to triple US chipmaking capacity by 2032. However, a critical challenge remains: a severe shortage of skilled workers essential to building and operating these high-tech facilities. The Semiconductor Industry Association warns of a potential shortfall of 67,000 skilled workers by 2030. Current US educational programs and training efforts would not fill this gap in time. Many of the needed professionals are foreign-born, yet outdated immigration policies and visa caps particularly for the H-1B program—make it nearly impossible for many highly qualified foreign workers, especially from countries like India, to contribute to our semiconductor sector. This results in delays in projects, potential shifts of production to other countries, and a failure to achieve the technological leadership and national security enhancements the US is striving for. To resolve this, the US needs targeted reforms like the proposed “Chipmaker’s Visa” to streamline visa access for high-skilled workers. Increasing overall STEM visas and exempting foreign grads from green-card caps are also crucial. Congress’s commitment to the Chips Act is commendable, but without addressing the skilled worker shortage, it risks becoming an empty promise. Billions allocated to revitalising the American semiconductor industry could be wasted if the US does not open the door to high-skilled talent. Want to learn more about the importance of international newcomers in the US workforce? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/e_FS_ff8 Economic Innovation Group Bloomberg #transformationtuesday

In recent years, U.S. industrial and competitiveness policy has increasingly zeroed in on the industries deemed “strategically significant.” These sectors, crucial to national security and technological advancement, are becoming more reliant on highly skilled professionals. Since 2000, the percentage of workers with advanced degrees in strategic industries has surged from 12.4% to 19.6%. This increase highlights the growing demand for highly skilled talent in sectors crucial to national security and technological innovation. Notably, foreign-born professionals are driving this trend, making up 36% of workers with graduate degrees from 26% two decades ago. These immigrant workers are not just plentiful but also highly valued. On average, they earn $106,000 annually in strategic industries, compared to $91,000 for their native-born counterparts. This wage disparity underscores their critical role in driving innovation and maintaining competitive advantage in these sectors. India and China are the leading sources of this vital talent, providing 41% of foreign-born workers with advanced degrees. However, outdated green card caps are threatening to undermine this essential talent pipeline. For instance, Indian and Chinese professionals face wait times that could stretch decades, jeopardizing our ability to tap into their expertise. Economic Innovation Group's key findings highlight an urgent need for policy reforms to streamline immigration processes for skilled workers. By fostering a welcoming environment for top global talent, we can secure our leadership in strategic industries and ensure continued growth. Want to know more about the importance of international newcomers in the U.S. workforce? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/e7dz8YY3 Connor O'Brien Adam Ozimek

Did you know that 92% of jobs in the U.S. now demand some level of digital skills? From virtual reality in restaurants to augmented reality in manufacturing, digital technology is becoming integral across all sectors. The recent PIAAC study highlights that 83% of first-generation immigrant young adults have a foundation of digital skills. More encouragingly, digital skills among second and third-generation immigrants are robust, making them valuable assets in the ever-evolving economy. Most U.S. young adults with a high school education, including those of immigrant origin, possess at least basic digital skills. However, as artificial intelligence and digital technologies reshape industries, this generation must not just rely on their current skills but elevate their digital capabilities continuously. It is crucial that employers leverage the impressive digital skills displayed by immigrant youths to actualize the workforce of the future. As we continue to navigate a world increasingly shaped by technology, let us celebrate and support immigrants' vital role. Their digital proficiency and ongoing skill development are key to driving innovation and filling the skills gaps in our workforce. Read more at: https://lnkd.in/gtrWRyhG Jeanne Batalova Migration Policy Institute #transformationtuesday

As the US labor force expands, so does its reliance on foreign-born talent. By 2030, demand for work visas is projected to exceed 7 million as immigrants fill critical gaps driven by economic growth and retirements, significantly boosting economic output. “Not only are foreign-born workers an important part of the economy broadly, but there are some states and some industries where they're pretty much completely reliant on foreign-born workers in order to function,” notes Dr. Chloe East, a visiting fellow at the Hamilton Project and associate professor in economics at the University of Colorado Denver. From tech giants in California to medical innovators in Texas, international newcomer workers are powering growth across diverse sectors, including STEM where their presence has surged to 23.1% of all professionals. International newcomers tend to settle in areas with strong job prospects and established social networks, which are critical factors in their success. These immigrant hubs typically experience expanded labor supplies and increased demand for goods and services. By 2030, states with the highest anticipated demand for work visas include populous ones like California, Texas, New York, and Florida, alongside smaller states such as New Jersey, Illinois, and Georgia, benefiting from their existing immigrant populations. Want to know more about the importance of immigrants in our workforce and their contributions to our future? Read more about it:https://lnkd.in/ghN5dMGb Yahoo Finance Maya Benjamin Adriana Belmonte The Brookings Institution #transformationtuesday

"Mayors understand the critical role of high-skilled immigrants in boosting the prosperity and economic resilience of our cities,” said Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb advocating for the Heartland Visa—a bold initiative recently endorsed by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Originally pitched by the Economic Innovation Group the Heartland Visa aims to attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to struggling urban areas, addressing economic challenges and fostering innovation. This dual opt-in program empowers cities and immigrants alike to thrive together, offering an expedited path to residency in exchange for a commitment to contribute to local economies. From revitalizing local economies through increased demand for goods and services to stimulating innovation and filling critical workforce gaps, mayors see the Heartland Visa as a catalyst for positive change in their communities. They recognize the potential of skilled immigration to stabilize housing markets, strengthen municipal finances, and enhance local industry competitiveness. With bipartisan support and broad public approval, the mayoral endorsement of the Heartland Visa highlights a consensus on the economic benefits of welcoming skilled immigrants. This forward-thinking approach not only addresses current economic challenges but also positions American cities for long-term prosperity and growth. Want to know more about the importance of immigrants in our workforce and their contributions to our future? Read more about it at: https://lnkd.in/eU3DnNig Boundless Immigration John Lettieri #transformationtuesday

Immigrant entrepreneurs have long fueled America's economic engine. Nearly half of Fortune 500 companies can be classified as “New American” – Companies founded by immigrants or their children. From iconic giants like Apple to rising Fortune 500 stars like Lululemon, their innovation fuels job creation and economic growth across industries. Their impact: - New American Fortune 500 companies employ 14.8 million people. On average, New American Fortune 500 companies employ 66,192 workers - New American Fortune 500 companies brought in more than $8 trillion in revenue. - Six states host at least ten New American Fortune 500 firms, highlighting their regional economic influence. Fortune 500 companies play a vital role in the U.S. economy, representing over 65% of the GDP. Their impact extends locally and statewide, particularly in hubs like New York, Texas, and California, where they stimulate business investment and development. Professional networks and collaborative spaces in these states brought about by the presence of these companies foster innovation and new business formation, driving economic growth and prosperity. Want to know more about the importance of immigrants in our workforce and their contributions to our future? Read more about it at: https://lnkd.in/eXu6QNBq American Immigration Council #transformationtuesday