Generations of farmers, mill workers, loggers and fishermen set a standard for toil that Mainers continue to achieve. If job opportunities here ever match the work ethic, wage earners could lead us to prosperity.
Unfortunately, good opportunities are scarce today. A recent census report confirms that earnings in Maine remain the lowest in the region, and according to the Maine Center for Economic Policy, thousands of working families are living in poverty. Maine’s job market and its economy are weighed down by too many low-skill, low-wage jobs.
To build a solid future for Maine’s economy, a better-educated workforce is essential. In a report titled “When Hard Work Isn’t Enough; Fostering Opportunities for Maine’s Working Families,” the Maine Center for Economic Policy outlines steps Maine can take to improve educational opportunities for those in the workforce.
Among these steps are a state commitment to keeping education affordable and increased support for career-oriented programs. The report, written by Frank O’Hara of Planning Decisions and Connie Zhu of MECEP, also urges the state to promote Maine’s emerging “green economy” and to continue expanding high-speed Internet access.
At $46,541, Maine’s median household income is the lowest in New England, according to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. As reported by the Bangor Daily News, the census data also show Maine having the region’s highest poverty rate.
Maine’s workforce need not remain underutilized, but improvement will take planning and state investment. A more strategic approach to education and infrastructure could put the state’s greatest asset to more productive use.
— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com.
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