James_September-October_2026_web - Flipbook - Page 25
A second major focus is addressing workforce needs. Across
the state, employers are seeking
highly skilled professionals in fields
such as healthcare, engineering,
technology, business, and education. Mercer is expanding programs in these high-demand areas
to help meet those needs. Their
nursing program, for example, has
experienced remarkable growth
and national recognition, while
the School of Engineering, the top
private engineering school in the
state, continues to produce talented graduates who are helping fuel
innovation and economic development throughout Georgia.
With Mercer’s location just a
few miles from Robins Air Force
Base, the defense and aviation
industries loom large. “We are also
deeply committed to strengthening
the state’s engineering and technology pipeline,” said Elkins. “Through
partnerships with industry and our
leadership in initiatives such as the
Georgia Aerospace and Defense Alliance, Mercer is helping to prepare
the next generation of engineers,
innovators, and problem-solvers
who will support Georgia’s rapidly
growing aerospace, defense, manufacturing and technology sectors.”
Another especially important
priority is improving healthcare
access across Georgia, particularly
in rural and medically underserved
communities. The Mercer University School of Medicine was founded
to address physician shortages
across the state, and that mission
remains as critical today as ever.
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