In-state grads more likely work in Idaho

BOISE -- Idaho residents attending college in-state are far more likely to remain in Idaho as they begin their careers, according to the Idaho Department of Labor. A study of data from 2010 through 2014 revealed that one year after graduation, around 77 percent of in-state graduates were working in Idaho jobs as compared to just 39 percent of out-of-state students, according to 2010-2014 research.

The other 23 percent of in-state graduates either left to work in another state, took a federal government job, joined the military or were self-employed. In some cases, graduates could still be looking for work in their field or continuing their education, research showed.

The findings also suggest their affinity and attachment to Idaho remains fairly strong over time, most likely because of family or other close connections, IDL officials said. Around 67 percent of the in-state group remained on the job in Idaho, contributing to the state’s economy, five years later. The out-of-state student retention rate, however, dropped from 39 to 28 percent over the same period.

“Access to a skilled workforce is the number one challenge Idaho businesses face,” said IDL Director Ken Edmunds. “Retaining a pipeline of college graduates from Idaho, other states and abroad is critical for bridging existing skills gaps and providing employers with the talent they need to compete and thrive in today’s economy.”

The research was conducted by the Idaho Department of Labor and included data from the Educational Analytics System of Idaho, a statewide longitudinal database built with a U.S. Department of Education grant.