Time to plug our state's brain drain

Nebraska, despite our warm communities and affordable living, faces a persistent challenge that demands urgent attention: the exodus of educated individuals, commonly known as the “brain drain.” The recent U.S. Census data not only confirms the ongoing departure of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher but also sounds the alarm about individuals with lesser levels of education also leaving the state. As the numbers continue to trend negatively, it’s imperative for Nebraska to take a closer look at the root causes and implement strategic solutions.

The data, analyzed by Josie Schafer of the Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, unveils some alarming trends. In 2022, the state lost an estimated 1,089 adults aged 25 and older with a high school diploma or less, marking a shift from previous years when Nebraska was attracting individuals in that education group. While the state saw a small net gain in individuals with some college or an associate degree, the numbers pale in comparison to previous years.

Josie Schafer suggests that the reasons behind this trend could be multifaceted, including job availability, better wages, job benefits offered elsewhere, or quality of life factors such as housing and childcare. The perception of Nebraska as a low-cost-of-living state may not be resonating with potential residents, pointing to the need for a comprehensive reevaluation of the state’s appeal.

Affordable “workforce” housing and childcare have been identified as top challenges by Chamber of Commerce officials in Nebraska. These factors are crucial not only for attracting talent but also for retaining a diverse and skilled workforce. Erin Porterfield of Heartland Workforce Solutions emphasizes the impact of negative experiences with racism and concerns about rights for people of diverse identities, contributing to a feeling that Nebraska isn’t for everyone.

Furthermore, Nebraska’s relatively early establishment of a solid employment pipeline leaves some young adults uncertain about their employment and career opportunities. The state must focus on enhancing connections between employers and young people to showcase viable career pathways and alleviate the sense of being lost, particularly for those who need to support themselves financially after high school.

The persistent departure of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher remains a critical issue. Despite having over 400,000 individuals with higher education living in Nebraska, the negative trend continues. While job opportunities have consistently been cited as a primary reason for migration, recent analyses point to housing as a significant influencer of outmigration.

Nebraska must not only address the concerns raised by its citizens but also learn from the experiences of other states. Innovative recruitment and retention strategies, particularly for foreign-born workers, may be contributing to the outflow. Lina Traslaviña Stover of the Heartland Workers Center suggests that Nebraska needs to explore more diverse employment opportunities to retain its workforce.

To reverse the brain drain, Nebraska should consider a comprehensive approach. This includes addressing housing challenges, promoting diversity and inclusion, strengthening the employment pipeline, and exploring innovative strategies to attract and retain a diverse range of talents. Collaborative efforts involving policymakers, businesses, and community organizations are crucial for ensuring that Nebraska remains an attractive and inclusive place for all. The state’s future prosperity depends on its ability to adapt and respond to the evolving needs and aspirations of its residents.