North Carolina's young adults continue to face a tough economy — one ravaged not only by recession but also by 30 years of declining opportunity and security for all but the most highly educated and affluent. Not only will young adults' lifelong earnings be lower as a result, their path to the middle class will be uphill.

Community colleges in North Carolina, like Pitt Community College, can help North Carolinians chart the path to a better life.

They assist workers in building the skills needed for the jobs of the future, connecting training and education to growth industries and providing an affordable option for gaining post-secondary credentials.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.