By 2020, the U.S. economy is expected to create 55 million job openings, with a majority requiring postsecondary education due to the retirement of baby boomers. The fastest growing job sectors will be in STEM, healthcare, and community services, while employers will value cognitive skills like communication and critical thinking. Most states currently fall short of the educational attainment needed for future job demands, highlighting the necessity for increased postsecondary education rates.