Education and Market Advantage

James L. Oblinger
Chancellor
North Carolina State University

For many people, “globalization” conjures up images of worldwide competition for jobs, resources and markets. It holds out the promise of a more equitable, interconnected world and the challenge of preserving our position of economic, political and cultural leadership. It is only when we start to tease apart what globalization is that we start to get a better understanding of what it means for colleges and universities.

Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich recently said: “Underlying all the debates over globalization, and all the debates over trade and direct investment is this most important singular fact...if you are well educated...if you are well able to innovate, you are advantaged in the global economy. You have a larger and larger market for your intellectual capital.”

Simply put, education and innovation are intrinsically linked. In a world connected primarily and increasingly by its problems, the successful global workforce is one that excels at problem solving—and solving today’s complex, global problems requires innovation.

Developing a globally attuned, innovative workforce involves widening the scope of educational experiences for our students beyond our borders, giving them opportunities to confront and solve real-world problems and bring together other disciplines, insights and approaches in novel ways. Such opportunities are not limited to study abroad programs. Corporate, government and university partnerships can catalyze innovation and provide students with a unique perspective.

Interdisciplinary education, research and collaboration help students expand their world view, as does creating opportunities for students to be entrepreneurial and work with practicing professionals. Corporate and government partners can model problem solving, mentor aspiring students, and challenge them with real-world, complex problems. But those same corporate partners benefit from the energy, enthusiasm and innovation our students bring.

On Centennial Campus at North Carolina State University, we have evolved the corporate partnership concept, literally moving corporate and government partners closer to students and faculty. Global organizations physically become part of campus, providing an opportunity for students to see and understand not just the problem or the solution, but the process of innovation and problem solving. Having this unique, tangible connection provides additional relevance to students’ education. And corporations come to campus not just looking for a place to locate but with a mindset that includes student engagement, workforce development and innovation.

MeadWestvaco, a global packaging firm, recently engaged students to help the company improve “at the front-end of innovation.” GlaxoSmithKline wanted interns with a background in computer programming, mathematics and facility with logic and cognitive science—students they found in the philosophy department—to help them turn ideas into action. Not only did the students gain valuable experience, the corporations gained as well. Innovation is not limited by age or position—it is catalyzed by diversity of perspective, a willingness to collaborate and a problem to be solved.

A critical part of education is helping students understand and experience problem solving and innovation. Those who learn to innovate will prosper in a global economy. As we think about the education our universities provide, we should not forget the education our corporate and government partners can share.