Employers across industries need skilled workers, and learners increasingly want training that connects directly to the work ahead. That interest has led to a resurgence of the age-old apprenticeship model.

Hampton Roads leaders say workforce shortages and rapid technology change are testing the region's largest employers and its colleges.

Mark Dreyfus, President of ECPI University, shared his perspective on nursing demand and the future of higher education in Virginia Business, a statewide publication covering Virginia's economy. The feature asks six regional executives how their organizations are meeting those pressures.

The cost of a degree keeps climbing, and so does the debt students carry to earn one. That has put pressure on colleges to prove a program pays off in real jobs at real wages.

Colleges are spending more than ever on student-facing technology, yet most students still describe the experience as clunky and disconnected. In fact, many say they have a better experience using the apps on their phone.

Hampton Roads employers need skilled workers faster than the region's traditional pipelines can produce them, and the pool of local graduates is projected to shrink in the years ahead.