Mississippi Workforce
Talent that knows no bounds
Eight public universities + four research institutions + 15 community colleges = one state with unlimited talent.
Our strong community college system and workforce development resources mean customized training is at your fingertips. Plus, our 23 colleges and universities churn out more than just talent – they’re producing innovations that are changing the face of industries. Mississippi State University increased enrollment by 3.4% in undergraduate programs and 24.2% in graduate school from 2019-2020.
Whether you’re looking for recruitment services or specialized post-employment training, Mississippi has the resources to push your business to the next level. Over 20,000 workers have been trained through Mississippi’s workforce and advanced training opportunities, and an additional $50 million has been invested toward job creation and training between 2016 and 2026.
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100% People-Powered
Learn more about Mississippi’s mighty labor force with interactive data.
Working with Mississippians
Learn more about Mississippi’s dedicated and educated workforce through the eyes of some of our business professionals.
Fast Facts


- Universities
- Community Colleges
- Research Consortium

Mississippi workforce fueled by strong schools
With eight public universities including the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University and University of Southern Mississippi, the Magnolia State’s skilled and highly trained residents push businesses to global competitiveness.

Local schools provide endless options for pursuing career paths
Mississippi’s comprehensive statewide community college system prepares students for the workforce through a variety of education and training programs. Additionally, if a Mississippi business has a skilled trade requirement, MDA can partner them with a local college or university to plan a course that meets their specialized needs.

University research paving the way to new innovations
The Mississippi Research Consortium consists of four local universities focused on basic and applied research, as well as partnerships between public and private sectors, with the goal of commercialization and the support of technology-based industries.
Featured Media
Red Land Cotton bringing 40 jobs to Tylertown with new sewing operations
Cotton producer and manufacturer Red Land Cotton creating 40 jobs Project is a $375,000 corporate investment Jackson, Mississippi – March […]
Lockers Manufacturing locating in Batesville, creating 60 Jobs
Jackson, Mississippi – February 9, 2021 – Lockers Manufacturing, producer of lockers for the American market, is locating its manufacturing […]
Westport Linen Services locating healthcare laundry operations in Greenville, creating 75 jobs
Jackson, Mississippi – February 8, 2021 – Healthcare laundry company Westport Linen Services is locating operations in Greenville. The project […]
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