The Challenge We Face
Factor 6: More education required for future innovation
Minnesota must be fertile ground for the growing knowledge economy and the next wave of innovation. Many steps can be taken to encourage economic growth, but none is as effective long-term as expanding education. “If the U.S. is to capitalize on the benefits of globalization, investing in a more educated and a more flexible workforce is essential,” said Charles Plosser, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia CEO. “We must adapt and enhance the skills and productivity of our workforce to meet this new and challenging environment.”
Source: Speech: Education and Economic Prosperity
When you consider the share of 25- to 34-year olds who have post high school education, several countries have surpassed or are closing in on the US. We used to be a leader.

Source: Education at a Glance 2008, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development