The number of workers in Snohomish County’s Education cluster totaled over 3,000 as of April 2010; employment within the cluster increased over 27% and 4% over 2009. Most employees in Education work as K-12 teachers and instructors for colleges, universities, or professional schools. Five of Snohomish County’s top 13 public employers are in the Education cluster. The demand for qualified educators far outweighs the current supply. Forecasts project hundreds of openings annually from 2009-2014. Additionally, 34% of teachers are eligible to retire soon. Growth in Education was strong from 1990-2005 and is projected to be moderate and steady in the coming years.

The Education cluster focuses on

• Elementary and secondary schools
• Junior colleges
• Community colleges, colleges, universities, and professional schools
• Business schools and computer and management training
• Technical and trade schools
• Other schools and instruction
• Educational support services