Former United States Education Secretary Margaret Spellings and Drexell Owusu of the Dallas Regional Chamber see the pandemic as a moment to correct a long-standing disconnect that prevents higher education institutions from preparing students for actual labor market needs.

They spoke to Texas Tribune energy and economy reporter Mitchell Ferman about how to better include employers in developing applicable curriculum.

They also discussed how schools need to convince those without a degree or credential who became unemployed during the pandemic that college is a viable path forward for them. As Texans adjust to a new reality, Spellings and Owusu agree it’ll take everyone from employers and professors to the Texas Legislature and the federal government to make sure access to higher education isn’t interrupted, and students are actually prepared for the jobs employers need filled. — Kate McGee

This session is supported by Texas State Technical College, Texas State University System, Bank of America, Trellis Foundation and Texas Association of Community Colleges.