Mississippi stands at a pivotal crossroads in shaping its economic and educational future. The upcoming Ascent to 55% Convening on October 15–16 at the Jackson Convention Complex provides a unique opportunity to unite education, business, and community leaders in a collective effort to strengthen our state’s workforce readiness.
The Ascent to 55% initiative aims to raise our educational attainment rate and increase the percentage of working-age Mississippians holding a postsecondary degree or credential to 55% by 2030. Currently, fewer than half of our adults possess such qualifications, placing us among the lowest in the nation. This gap poses significant challenges as industries evolve and demand a more skilled workforce.
Raising our educational attainment rate can significantly increase workforce participation. By 2030, 63% of jobs in Mississippi are projected to require some form of postsecondary education. The need for action is clear, and now is the time to join together to enhance our future workforce.
The Convening is more than just a conference; it is a call to action. Attendees will engage with national and local experts through keynotes, panels, and breakout sessions, focusing on strategies to build stronger employer-educator partnerships, expand access to credentials and training, and develop Mississippi’s talent pipeline for high-demand, high-wage jobs.
This event also includes pre-conference sessions including the Mississippi Consortium for Higher Education in Prison (MCHEP) event, fostering inclusive discussions on educational access and equity.
The Ascent to 55% Convening represents a critical moment for Mississippi. By participating, we contribute to a strategic plan that aligns educational outcomes with workforce needs and equips more Mississippians for meaningful careers. This collaborative effort is essential for building a stronger, more competitive Mississippi.
We hope you’ll join us in Jackson on October 15–16 and take part in these important conversations. For more information and to register, visit ascentto55percent.org/convening.
The views expressed by contributors are their own and not the views of SuperTalk Mississippi Media.
