Rise Together

Across the nation, immigrants are driving significant demographic and economic changes, and their contributions are vital for our future prosperity. In cities like Philadelphia, its foreign-born population surged, growing by 109,400, helping to counterbalance a decrease of 59 700 in the US-born population. This vibrant influx not only helped to revitalise Philadelphia’s neighbourhoods but also fuel economic growth and innovation. This growth reflects a broader national trend where immigrants are increasingly central to local and regional economies. Nationally, immigrants have become a key driver of growth. Research shows that immigrants and their children, known as second-generation Americans, are among the strongest contributors to our economy. They bring skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and diverse perspectives that are crucial for addressing future economic challenges and seizing new opportunities. They not only bolster the workforce but also significantly enhance the tax base and public services. While first-generation Americans may face initial challenges, they lay the groundwork for their children’s future success, fueling socioeconomic progress. As our workforce evolves, embracing and supporting immigrants ensures that we remain competitive and inclusive on the global stage. Philadelphia’s demographic landscape is evolving in profound ways, and immigrants are at the heart of this transformation. Want to learn more about why transformation is important to actualize the workforce of the future? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/eASVP2Yw Thomas Ginsberg Maridarlyn Gonzalez The Pew Charitable Trusts #transformationtuesday

Migration has always been a significant factor in shaping a country's workforce. According to the International Labour Organization Global Estimates, there were 169 million international migrant workers in 2019, accounting for 4.7% of the global labor force. Far from just filling gaps, immigrants are driving the U.S. workforce's evolution, contributing $2 trillion to the US GDP in 2016 and paying $458.7 billion in taxes in 2018. Composing 18.1% of the U.S. civilian labor force, they are stepping up to fill 4.7 million anticipated job vacancies as the baby boomer generation retires. Their diverse skills, strong work ethic, and significant economic contributions drive innovation and growth, making them indispensable to various sectors, from technology to agriculture. As recent data shows a rebound in immigration easing labor market tightness, it’s evident that embracing immigrant talent is not only necessary but strategically beneficial for our economy’s long-term prosperity. Want to learn more about why transformation is important to actualize the workforce of the future? https://lnkd.in/epg692_S Pew Research Center International Labour Organization #transformationtuesday

Let's spotlight the remarkable contributions of immigrants to the U.S. workforce. Their impact is felt across various sectors, from healthcare to technology, driving progress and innovation. ?? Healthcare: Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a shortage of nearly 135,000 healthcare providers by 2036, and international newcomers are already stepping up to fill this critical gap. They make up 15.6% of all nurses and 27.7% of health aides nationally. Over half of health aides are foreign-born in states like New York and New Jersey.? ?? Agricultural: Immigrants are essential to the $1.5 trillion U.S. agriculture industry, representing 54.3% of graders and sorters of agricultural products and 25.3% of the overall agricultural workforce. Their hard work keeps food on the tables and supports local economies. ?? Construction: With a projected shortage of 500,000 construction workers by 2025, immigrants play a pivotal role in addressing the housing crisis. In 2022, they comprised 25% of the construction workforce, with numbers soaring to over 40% in states like California and Texas. ?? Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Immigrants drive entrepreneurship and innovation, starting businesses at more than twice the rate of US-born individuals. They represent 22.6% of U.S. entrepreneurs, generating over $110 billion in business income. In STEM fields, they make up 23.1% of the workforce, fueling advancements in technology and science. Let’s celebrate their contribution and work ethics, which shape all aspects of society and illustrate the vital role they play in the U.S. workforce. Want to learn more about why transformation is important to actualize the workforce of the future? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/gE8EDmev American Immigration Council Anna Shepperson #transformationtuesday

America’s economic vitality is deeply intertwined with the contributions of immigrants and international newcomers. Recent data reveals a significant rise in the foreign-born labor force, increasing 11% since February 2020. This growth is not just a number—it is essential to helping to keep inflation in check and sustain economic stability. Goldman Sachs noted that, immigration is the answer to “one of the biggest puzzles of the last year”, namely why America has both robust growth and lower inflation in recent years than any other wealthy country. Immigrants are stepping into roles across sectors like agriculture, construction, childcare, and hospitality, where their skills are not just filling gaps but driving progress. They help keep our economy vibrant and responsive to market needs. Without their hard work and dedication, many industries would struggle to meet demand, affecting overall economic health and growth. Want to learn more about why transformation is important to actualize the workforce of the future? Read more at: https://lnkd.in/ehtUui_f Rana Foroohar Financial Times

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