As the recession begins to hit its stride, the unemployment rate is hitting heights of over 9.5%. However, a silver lining is tiger striping these dark clouds. According to President Obama and his economic advisors, jobs in the healthcare and environmental sectors are growing at a faster rate than those of the U.S. economy as a whole. Jobs in construction and manufacturing sectors are also due for a significant rebound in the coming months and years. This economic forecast spells brighter days for the thousands who are thinking about getting training in these specific areas. We are in the midst of a financial storm; that is without a doubt. Nonetheless, we know, as does President Obama, that education will part the clouds for the American people courageous enough to bring on the winds of change in their lives.

The report, called Prepared the Workers of Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow, describes how the training of skilled workers is the driving force to blossom the employment rate. An increase in learning institutions and citizens’ interest in getting higher education is the only vaccine to cure our economically plagued country. President Obama agrees, stating “In an economy where jobs requiring at least an associate’s degree are projected to grow twice as fast as jobs requiring no college experience, it’s never been more essential to continue education and training after high school.”

According to the report which is based on labor market data, economic drivers are shifting focus from financial service sectors to those sectors that are transforming the economy (ie construction, healthcare, education and the environment). These areas are what will unhorse this recession and reaffirm the US economy in the world market. The President said he wants America to lead the world in college degrees by 2020 and knows this cannot be done without the help of community colleges. He said “Part of this goal will be met by helping Americans better afford a college education. But part of it will also be strengthening our network of community colleges. We believe it’s time to reform our community colleges so that they provide Americans of all ages a chance to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to compete for the jobs of the future.”

This historic recession and the American spirit of perseverance are a pair of colossal forces engaged in a circular conflict. They are like two sponges attempting to absorb each other. One must eventually give in, and it shall not be the will of the American people. Determination dances out of the hearts of our hardworking citizens who want their struggle to be the pulsating rhythm of today’s change. Be a part of this evolution. Be a part of this revolution. Get your degree today.