According to the Kansas Department of Labor, one-third of all reported employment vacancies require some type of post-secondary education. The Learning Quest Education Savings Program coupled with the Kansas Investment in Developing Scholars (KIDS) initiative make education more affordable, even in difficult times.

These initiatives can be used for education at vocational and technical schools and community colleges as well as four-year universities and colleges. To learn more, visit www.kansasstatetreasurer.com.

Now is a critical time to emphasize technical education. Kansas is struggling to meet the demand for technical talent (i.e. electricians, machinists, diesel mechanics) necessary to remain competitive in a global economy. This field must be integrated into a long-term vision for Kansas.

Struggling Kansans will find the greatest opportunities to move their families ahead in the skilled trades. Most of this education will be delivered through our technical schools and community colleges where many Kansans have completed programs, such as nursing and welding, jump-starting their families out of poverty.

We do well to remember that Kansans value opportunity and hard work. We have long believed that if you are willing to work, you deserve the opportunity to advance yourself and your family.

Currently, 19,000 Kansans work below the federal minimum wage, protected only by our state minimum wage which is the lowest in the nation at $2.65 per hour.

A single young mother who is low skilled but willing to work while facing some of the toughest lifetime challenges is as deserving of the protection of the law as an imprudently managed investment bank. If we are going to help families move themselves out of poverty, we must guarantee a wage that rewards and dignifies work.

Finally, now is the time to extend the Kansas transportation program while interest rates are low, construction prices have declined, and labor costs are lower. Our transportation contractors have demonstrated a history of hiring low skilled workers and providing them with opportunities to move into higher paying jobs. In addition, well thought out transportation investments build assets that enhance our economy while creating jobs.

There is no question that we are facing hardships, but we cannot escape our responsibility to provide opportunity for all Kansans. When leaders come together in determined pursuit of an ideal, no obstacle is too great to overcome. With the right priorities and strategic investments, we will meet the challenges of the economy, reduce poverty, and take the lead in technological education.

Ad astra per aspera.