Missouri employers are facing a shrinking pool of young workers, according to a new report from University of Missouri Extension.
The report says the state's population of 16- to 24-year-olds has declined by about 21,000 over the past decade.
Despite the decline, more young Missourians are entering the workforce immediately after high school instead of enrolling in college. Workers younger than 25 account for 16% of Missouri's private-sector workforce and fill a significant share of jobs in restaurants, retail, hospitality, manufacturing and construction.
University of Missouri Extension specialists say the trend makes apprenticeships, industry certifications and other workforce training programs increasingly important. They say employers are competing for a smaller number of young workers while helping prepare them for higher-skilled careers.