Florida’s greatest economic resource is a population educated to match the state’s workforce needs. An appropriately educated workforce will keep business and industry in Florida and attract out of state companies to relocate here.

A recent Tampa Bay Times article highlighted the untapped potential in the 1.3 million Floridians between ages 25 and 55 that have earned some college credits, but have not completed an associate’s degree or higher.

This does not mean that 1.3 million Floridians are unemployed or not contributing to the state’s economy. It does, however, likely predict that many residents are not reaching their earning potential in the labor force and are more at risk in economic downturns. This also creates mismatches in the job market, where jobs go unfilled because potential candidates do not have the certificates or degrees necessary for the position.

College graduates generally earn more than individuals with only a high school education and most of the jobs created after the recession require postsecondary education. Workers who have not completed a college degree or certificate may also be more vulnerable to losing their jobs to automation.

To meet this challenge and develop potential solutions, the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, has joined with the Florida College System and the state’s Higher Education Coordinating Council in the Rise to 55 initiative. The goal is to raise the number of Florida residents who have completed some form of postsecondary education—industry certifications, two-year and four-year degrees—from 47 percent to 55 percent by 2025. A key component of Rise to 55 is getting individuals with some college classes to return and complete their higher education.

SCF, like its partner institutions in the Florida College System, is the ideal institution in its region to help the state meet the Rise to 55 goal. Our College specializes in the kind of high skill, high wage workforce programs that match the employment needs of our region. SCF’s 29 Associate in Science degree programs, 28 workforce certificate programs and 6 Bachelor of Applied Science programs support working adults looking to move up in their current career field or create an opportunity in a new profession. Graduates from SCF’s workforce programs enjoy a very high placement rate and competitive salaries.

Many members of our community have started college but stopped due to many reasons, including economic, employment or family. It is never too late to come back to the classroom or find an on-line program and complete your education. Economists project that 40 percent of Florida households are struggling to make ends meet. We know that education is the pathway to higher earnings and greater job security.

At SCF, we offer an economical and convenient way to complete your education. We have the programs that match the employment needs in our region and the guidance you need to complete your certificate or degree. Our goal is to provide you the education you need at the time and place that best suits your lifestyle. If you are looking to complete your education, expand your skills or set out on a new employment path, please contact us or check out our College at www.scf.edu.

Florida’s economy is strong and will only grow as its residents take full advantage of their capabilities. Higher education is the pathway for the state and its people to reach their full potential. SCF will help Florida Rise to 55.

Carol Probstfeld is president of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.