Education and Workforce Needs Index (EWNI)

In our continued efforts to strengthen postsecondary education, workforce development, and community well-being, a key question remains: Where will our efforts yield the greatest impact? The Education and Workforce Needs Index (EWNI) was developed to help policymakers, analysts, workforce and economic developers, and community leaders pinpoint the most urgent educational and workforce needs across states and regions.

Amid the overwhelming volume of available data, the EWNI cuts through the noise—clearly highlighting the areas that deserve policy focus and strategic investment. Developed by Ed Work Strategy, the EWNI is an interactive, data-driven tool that empowers leaders at the state, regional, and institutional levels to identify and address their communities’ most pressing challenges. Drawing from 11 core indicators across key education and workforce dimensions, the EWNI synthesizes vast public data into an accessible, actionable format. It provides a clear view of local strengths and vulnerabilities, enabling decision-makers—from postsecondary institutions and economic development agencies to nonprofit and government partners—to prioritize efforts and resources where they are needed most.

The EWNI is more than a data tool. It  guides policymakers and stakeholders to the areas where intervention matters most.