Jobs and education for the 21st century | READER COMMENTARY

Jobs and Education for the 21st Century

The path to a better future lies in updating both jobs and education, according to Lynne Agress. With thousands of government workers unemployed during the extended shutdown, many—especially younger workers—must consider their future careers. The same applies to recent high school and college graduates.

Patience is necessary, as training and retraining require time. However, the outlook is optimistic. The key is creating jobs suitable for the 21st century, ranging from unskilled to highly skilled roles that can help everyone achieve success.

Addressing Climate Change Through Employment

One of the world's greatest threats is climate change, which could render our planet unlivable if ignored. From powerful hurricanes and significant temperature shifts to floods, fires, and pollution, the consequences are severe.

To fight climate change, numerous opportunities exist: research, analysis, construction, and policy jobs across many levels could open once governments take action. Such efforts will protect cities like New York and regions in Florida from flooding and preserve wildlife like polar bears in the rapidly shrinking Arctic.

Climate change is part of our changing environment, including the air we breathe.

Environmental Improvements During the Pandemic

A positive outcome of COVID-19 was reduced pollution in several major cities, as fewer people commuted by car or truck.

Modernizing education and jobs to meet challenges like climate change will foster a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Author's summary: Updating education and job sectors to address 21st-century challenges, especially climate change, offers hope for a sustainable and successful future for all generations.

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The Baltimore Sun The Baltimore Sun — 2025-11-08