Researchers predict the number of people in the United States workforce could exceed 180 million by 2028, but, if employment demands continue to expand at current levels, the number of jobs could approach 200 million. Skills needed to perform those jobs will continue to grow, requiring higher levels of training to perform all jobs, including those viewed as low-skilled or unskilled. An aging population and larger percentage of minorities in the work force add to this already critical situation. Jobs requiring training beyond high school will grow nearly twice as fast as those requiring less training, increasing pressure on postsecondary educational institutions to accommodate demand. Technical and soft skills will continue to replace static skill sets as employers react to changes and innovation in the marketplace. To enable workers to obtain relevant training in as timely and cost-effective a manner as possible, alternative methods of educational delivery have emerged--distance learning and online "e-learning" at existing educational institutions and through new virtual postsecondary institutions and training organizations. Companies partner with community colleges and training organizations to develop programs tailored to company needs. All this education and training will result in a more efficient, flexible, and smarter workforce. However, to avoid severe shortages in adequately trained workers, employers and educators will need to work together more closely to ensure workers receive the training employers need. (YLB)