Bridging the Gap: How higher education and businesses are shaping New Jersey’s Workforce

In New Jersey, some colleges and universities are forging strong partnerships with the business community to give students a competitive edge in the job market.

How do we know? We asked: Describe a specific collaboration between your school and a business, detailing the objectives of the partnership and any measurable impacts it has had on both the university and the surrounding community.

From research collaborations to internship pipelines and workforce development programs, these alliances with the business community provide students with real-world experience while helping companies tap into emerging talent.

Schools including NJIT and Kean University are teaming up with area health care systems, major corporations, startups, and industry leaders to offer hands-on learning, mentorship, and career opportunities. These partnerships not only enhance student success but also drive economic growth and innovation across the state, ensuring that New Jersey remains a hub for business and education.

And it’s a win-win. Companies get fresh talent, students get a head start, and New Jersey’s economy gets stronger. It’s not just education—it’s a fast track to success.

— Tom Hughes, Publisher