SACO — In order to keep young people in Maine and prepare them for the workforce, some changes need to be made in the state’s higher educational system, according to Eliot Cutler.
Cutler was hired a few months ago as the CEO of the University of Maine System’s Professional and Graduate Center Initiative. The Professional and Graduate Center is still a concept in development. The Harold Alfond Educational Foundation provided $500,000 for the initial market study and an additional $1.25 million to move ahead with the early stages of the concept, according to a press release from the University of Maine System.
The former gubernatorial candidate spoke to members of the local business community Tuesday at a breakfast event, at the Ramada Inn, sponsored by the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“We can do a better job preparing people for today’s economy,” said Cutler.
Cutler talked about a proposed new graduate center that would consolidate the graduate business programs, and bring the business graduate school and the university’s law school under one roof and promote collaboration among the two programs, as well as from outside businesses.
Lawyers who may ”“ in their career ”“ help someone start up a business, or prepare a family estate, should have had a basic course in accounting, though many have not, said Cutler.
Cutler said the Muskie School of Public Service could benefit by being part of this proposed collaboration, as city administrators could use some business background when negotiating contracts.
Today’s workforce needs people with analytical skills who are innovative and know how to collaborate, said Cutler.
Cutler also said that there needs to be one university system with seven campuses instead of seven campuses functioning as separate universities.
“I know it sounds simple, but change is hard,” said Cutler.
“Change has been hard here, but we’ve got to find ways to make it happen,” added Cutler. “If we keep on doing the same old thing, young people will continue to leave the state. We have the opportunity to do something great.”
Cutler’s presentation on Tuesday received a positive response from members in attendance.
Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Director Craig Pendleton said that workforce development is an issue that’s frequently talked about and Cutler has taken an important initiative he hopes will greatly enhance education in Maine.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282”“1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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