A common concern of Pittsburgh region employers is that they cannot find a sufficient number of skilled and qualified candidates to fill open jobs. Not only do many employers have immediate hiring concerns, but a significant number of industries report an above-average number of workers over age 55. Large numbers of Baby Boomers are - or will be - retiring soon. The employees needed to successfully fill those openings are today’s students. Successfully filling open positions with qualified candidates ensures an employer’s ability to prosper. When employers do well, the region and its economy can prosper.

The Pittsburgh Regional Compact builds the workforce by building careers. Partnerships between employers and educators can contribute to career education by preparing students - through a variety of approaches - for the many careers available in the region. As a result:

• Regional employers get introduced to students - tomorrow’s workforce.

• Students get acquainted with a variety of jobs - professional and technical - available in the region and learn about the skills and education they need to attain these jobs.

• Students will make smarter choices about their education and career paths and will be realistically prepared to be successful candidates for the jobs available in the Pittsburgh region.

• A pool of qualified candidates for regional employers makes it easier for businesses to be successful and grow, which helps the region to prosper.

The Pittsburgh Regional Compact is an employer-driven initiative collaboratively
sponsored by the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, business
leaders, educators, students, educational institutions and workforce development
organizations across the 10-county Pittsburgh region.