Challenge 3: Preparing a workforce-ready foreign-born population
As of 2013, Rhode Island's foreign-born population is about 138,000. Many come to RI with lower education levels than, say, the foreign-born tech workforce going to Massachusetts.
Nearly 35% of RI's foreign-born population over age 25 lacks a high-school diploma, which is higher than the national average and considerably higher than neighboring states.
Evidence has shown that hard-working, entrepreneurial ethics are often strong assets of the foreign-born workforce. But many foreign-born adults will need a running start through English-language learning before being able to engage in even basic education, never mind workforce development or college.
Data Note: The "Northeast Region" includes New York, Pennsylvania, and the New England states. Data source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2009-2013 5-Year Estimates.
