We were very disappointed by the comments made by C Todd Jones in the Wall Street Journal in response to the wonderful pro welding editorial last week by Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel. It seems Mr. Jones does not hold a very high view of welders and in particular our education, intelligence level and contribution to the economy. Below is the full transcript. The reactive policy proposals by Mr. Mandel, Ohio state treasurer, would only ensure Ohios future remains mired in its past. Ohio ranks 38th in college attainment, its dubious neighborhood for decades. Considering the direct correlation between a states baccalaureate attainment and its level and growth of average incomes, the treasurers diminution of college is both surprising and misguided. While the state currently does need welders and other skilled trades, its future belongs to the educated. The Ohio Bureau of Labor Market Informations Buckeye Top Fifty lists the states projected high-wage, in-demand occupations. Nearly three-quarters of those require a college degree. The average welder in Ohio, by the way, currently earns $31,786. Disparaging bachelors degree holders whose first jobs are at Starbucks has become cliché, yet notably, they are employed because they have the skills to adapt to a variety of jobs. Bachelors degree holders today have a 3.7% unemployment rate, compared with 8.3% for those with only a high-school diploma. Ohios manufacturers are desperate for engineers. Our health-care providers cannot find enough pharmacists. The very employers Mr. Mandel cites need computer scientists and software developers. The states insurance, apparel and consumer products industries are full of smart people with degrees in part because they attended one of the states 100 colleges and universities. C. Todd Jones President Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio Columbus, Ohio
Posted on: Tue, 29 Apr 2014 20:13:13 +0000
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