University Minute: Strengthening Nebraska's Workforce

LINCOLN, Neb. — In this week’s University Minute, University of Nebraska System President Dr. Jeff Gold highlights how the University of Nebraska trains and retains graduates to make the state's workforce stronger.

The University of Nebraska plays a central role in strengthening the state’s workforce, graduating approximately 11,000 students each year and supplying a significant share of Nebraska’s teachers and health care professionals, NU System President Dr. Jeff Gold said.

According to Gold, the university’s impact begins with its graduates, who earn bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees before entering the workforce.

“Each year, approximately 11,000 men and women of all ages graduate from the University of Nebraska,” Gold said. “A large percentage of which join the workforce.”

Beyond graduates, Gold emphasized the university’s broader economic influence through its employees. Faculty, staff and extension officers not only support the institution’s academic mission but also contribute to local communities across the state.

“They live in our communities, send their kids to our schools, eat in our restaurants … and also add to the economic stability of our state,” Gold said.

Major Contributor to Education and Health Care

Gold highlighted the university’s significant role in preparing professionals in key sectors, particularly education and health care.

The University of Nebraska educates approximately 50% of the state’s teacher workforce, he said, and continues to provide ongoing professional development.

In health care, the university supplies between 50% and 75% of Nebraska’s workforce in various medical professions, depending on the field. That includes disciplines such as dentistry and pharmacy.

“We are very specific in creating that future workforce for both rural and urban Nebraska,” Gold said.

Driving Innovation and Entrepreneurship

In addition to preparing graduates for established professions, the university is investing in entrepreneurship to meet evolving workforce needs.

Gold pointed to the colleges of business, which offer entrepreneurship programs designed to prepare students to launch and grow companies in Nebraska.

“The colleges of business have very solid entrepreneurship programs,” he said, aimed at educating and training the next generation of business leaders who will start new companies and contribute to future economic growth.

Through workforce preparation, professional training and economic engagement, Gold said the University of Nebraska remains a key driver of the state’s long-term strength and stability.

Watch more in the video above.