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What Colorado Education and Workforce Leaders Are Saying About The Future of Workforce and Education in Colorado

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DENVER - Yesterday, Governor Polis, Legislators, Educators and Workforce leaders unveiled a new report that outlines recommendations to streamline higher education and workforce development under one roof, expanding opportunity for all Coloradan learners, employers and jobseekers.

"Pipefitters Local Union 208 wants to recognize the commitment from Gov. Polis to advancing training in registered apprenticeships as a critical part of Colorado's workforce strategy.  The creation of the State Apprenticeship Agency was a critical piece in advancing that mission and we agree with the report that apprenticeships must be an integral part of Colorado's talent development. We look forward to participating in this discussion as the legislature debates this proposal," said Cecil Courtney, Pipefitters Local Union 208.

"When thinking about Colorado's long-term workforce needs, it's critical that employers across the state can find the talent they need to adapt to our growing and diverse economy. Streamlining how state government approaches the postsecondary education and training will support Colorado's overall business climate, further improve our talent pipeline, and ensure we remain competitive as a state," said Loren Furman, President & CEO, Colorado Chamber of Commerce.

"A strong and diverse Colorado workforce is essential for our state's future. At CU we prioritize our role in developing that talent," said CU President Todd Saliman. "This new report makes clear that while Colorado has a strong foundation, we must do more to remove inefficiencies and expand access to high quality education and training. These efforts – coupled with meaningful state investment in higher education – will help to ensure every learner can gain the skills they need to succeed in the life they choose."

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"Colorado is facing serious workforce challenges as more jobs need postsecondary training and yet the number of college age students is declining. No single part of our fragmented system can meet this moment alone. We need a more integrated approach, and this report offers a path forward. The CSU System stands ready to help open the doors of opportunity for the next generation, as we have since 1870," said Colorado State University Chancellor Tony Frank.

"Colorado is at a pivotal moment, and this report makes clear that we must work differently and more collaboratively to meet the needs of our learners, our employers, and our economy. The demographic and technological shifts outlined in the report underscore why community colleges are essential to Colorado's future—we provide the flexible, skills-aligned education and training that help Coloradans adapt, advance, and thrive. We are encouraged by the Governor's vision for a more seamless, learner-centered talent development system with no wrong doors and no dead ends. The Colorado Community College System stands ready to partner in this work by expanding clear, stackable pathways, strengthening alignment with industry, and ensuring every Coloradan can access the education and credentials that lead to opportunity and economic mobility. Together, we can build the adaptive, opportunity-rich, future-ready system that Colorado needs," said Colorado Community College System Chancellor, Dr. Marielena DeSanctis.

"CMU and CMU Tech have been hard at work making programs at every academic level accessible, affordable and relevant to employers," said Colorado Mesa University President John Marshall. "We're excited about the prospect of more closely aligning efforts across state government to better serve students and families."

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"Colorado Business Roundtable applauds Governor Polis and legislative, education, and workforce leaders for this bold vision to streamline our postsecondary talent system. Colorado's competitiveness depends on a seamless connection between higher education, training providers, and employers—a true one-stop talent system that helps learners move from classroom to career with speed and clarity. When business is at the table alongside colleges and universities, we can align programs to real labor-market demand and deliver a clear return on investment for students, workers, and employers alike," said Debbie Brown, President, Colorado Business Roundtable.

"Colorado's EO 2025-006 report demonstrates the state's commitment to creating a truly skills-driven economy by removing long-standing obstacles and unifying the systems that help workers build careers and businesses get the talent they need. This comprehensive approach—simplifying access, centering skills, and strengthening pathways—sets a new benchmark for states working to expand opportunity for all workers, including workers skilled through alternative routes (STARs). These priorities mirror Opportunity@Work's agenda to reshape how people and businesses experience the pathways from learning to work, and reinforce Colorado's standing as a bold, innovative leader whose models could be scaled nationwide," said Blair Corcoran de Castillo, Opportunity@Work.

"The Rocky Mountain Workforce Development Association, alongside Colorado Urban Workforce Alliance, appreciates the direction outlined in the Executive Order and values the opportunity to continue working with the Polis administration. We are committed to engaging collaboratively in the process and contributing to the successful implementation of the EO recommendations. Workforce Colorado remains ready to provide talent and opportunity to all Coloradans," said Todd Nielsen, Rocky Mountain Workforce Development Association.

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