EDUCATION + SCHOOLS

Workforce options have changed in rural areas since the pandemic

Mar 1, 2023, 7:00 PM
Western Governors University recently concluded a study which delved into Lightcast’s job-listing...
Western Governors University recently concluded a study which delved into Lightcast’s job-listing data from the past five years in rural areas. Photo credit: Scott G. Winterton/Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — Western Governors University recently concluded a study which delved into Lightcast’s job-listing data from the past five years in rural areas. The study examined what job changes were made during and after the pandemic.

Rural areas of Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Colorado were the focus for the research.

Since many companies shifted to at work-at-home during the pandemic, this brought new opportunities to rural areas. Over the past five years, Heath Care and STEM jobs have been on the rise in these areas. Health Care employment opportunities make up a large percentage of job listings in these states. With the highest percentage of 50.6% in Oregon and the lowest at 15.1% in Utah. 

The economy and rural areas

However, more job postings are asking for a bachelor’s degree and in-person work. According to the study, 80% to 90% of the job listings wanted in-person and local employees. Additionally, 33% of the job listings required a bachelor’s degree.

“Rural economies, once dominated by agriculture, are now more diverse, with talent working across health care, education services, retail, manufacturing, finance and more.” said Betheny Gross, the director of research for WGU Labs.

Although there are many exciting and new opportunities for rural communities the pressure of having a bachelor’s degree is also high. WGU has made a new scholarship to help those in rural areas pursue a degree. The Learn Where You Live Scholarship will aid students up to $750 for a six-month term.

“The rural community is the backbone of our economy.”  said Tonya Drake, regional vice president of WGU. She continues to say that WGU is excited for what the future holds. WGU is eager to help those in rural areas achieve their goals. 

Related Reading:

 

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Today’s Top Stories

Education + Schools

A male suspect was reported possibly stealing articles of women’s clothing at Brigham Young Unive...
Waverly Golden

Possible clothing thief at Brigham Young University

A male suspect was reported possibly stealing articles of women’s clothing at Brigham Young University.
2 days ago
The Points for Protein event will yield 140,000 servings of food.(The Utah Pork Producers)...
Tom Haraldsen

Utah Food Bank scores big with a 35K pound pork donation

The Utah Food Bank scores big with 35,000 pounds of pork donations. The 'Points for Pork' program will help feed Utah families.
3 days ago
Students at UVU...
Adam Small

Are more kids choosing apprenticeships over college?

According to The Wall Street Journal, apprenticeships have shot up 50% over the past decade. At the same time, college enrollment has dropped 15%.
4 days ago
A bill sitting on Gov. Cox's desk aims to get rid of the "use it or lose it" mentality at the heart...
HUGO RIKARD-BELL

New mental health program focuses on Utah farmers

A new program by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is taking a closer look at the mental health of farmers.
4 days ago
Some Students at Bonneville High School received top honors for their skills in auto mechanics. The...
Mike Anderson

Bonneville High School auto mechanics program named best in country

Students at Bonneville High School received top honors for their skills in auto mechanics. Their program \now has the title of ‘Top Shop’ in the nation.
5 days ago
school breakfast from program is pictured...
Peter Johnston

Free student breakfast program helps feed long-term success

The free school breakfast program in Utah's schools has been a staple to help feed students and boost long-term academic success.
5 days ago

Sponsored Articles

Skier being towed by a rider on a horse. Skijoring....
Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Looking for a new winter activity? Try skijoring in Bear Lake

Skijoring is when someone on skis is pulled by a horse, dog, animal, or motor vehicle. The driver leads the skiers through an obstacle course over jumps, hoops, and gates.
Banner with Cervical Cancer Awareness Realistic Ribbon...
Intermountain Health

Five common causes of Cervical Cancer – and what you can do to lower your risk

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness month and cancer experts at Intermountain Health are working to educate women about cervical cancer.
Kid holding a cisco fish at winterfest...
Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get ready for fun at the 2023 Bear Lake Monster Winterfest

The Bear Lake Monster Winterfest is an annual weekend event jam-packed full of fun activities the whole family can enjoy.
happy friends with sparklers at christmas dinner...
Macey's

15 easy Christmas dinner ideas

We’ve scoured the web for you and narrowed down a few of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas to make your planning easy.
Spicy Homemade Loaded Taters Tots...
Macey's

5 Game Day Snacks for the Whole Family (with recipes!)

Try these game day snacks to make watching football at home with your family feel like a special occasion. 
Happy joyful smiling casual satisfied woman learning and communicates in sign language online using...
Sorenson

The Best Tools for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Workplace Success

Here are some of the best resources to make your workplace work better for Deaf and hard-of-hearing employees.
Workforce options have changed in rural areas since the pandemic