A shortage of engineers
The Independent, Ashland, Ky.: What can make Kentucky’s proverbial “Golden Triangle” — the prosperous and economically booming area of the state formed by the cities of Louisville, Lexington and Covington — even more golden? More engineers, say the mayors of the state’s two largest cities.
A new report released recently says the area anchored by both cities has the potential for a significant boost in manufacturing jobs. However, the entire region needs more engineers to reach its full potential.
Lexington Mayor Jim Gray says Kentucky ranks near the bottom nationally in the number of engineers it produces. Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer points to engineers as “job-creating machines,” saying their work spins off other jobs. Having more engineers would expand the region’s manufacturing clout.
While our corner of Kentucky is more than 100 miles east of the Golden Triangle, there also is a need for more engineers in northeast Kentucky.
Budget proposal
Fischer and Gray are urging Gov. Steve Beshear to include money in his budget proposal to lawmakers next year that would expand engineering programs at the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville.