If your business requires a source of reliable, responsible workers and keeping employees current in the skills required to compete in the new economy plan to participate at the March CEOtoCEO Breakfast on Wednesday, March 21st from 7:30 to 9:30. The breakfast will be held at the Seattle Harbor Club.

As the economy recovers business employers, especially those requiring advanced skills, are finding it increasingly difficulty finding and retaining qualified employees. Washington state has one of the largest "skill gaps" in the nation. Frustrated business leaders say they have job openings but can't find workers qualified to fill them. Washington ranks 6th in the nation in the number of jobs that require college but 48th in production of college degrees. Years of recession have left the state with persistent budget deficits and deep program cuts in higher education.

Jean Floten, a recognized leader in higher education, will present new innovative programs that offers employers and employees flexible, affordable access to quality higher education. Jean was selected as the first Chancellor of WGU Washington in May 2011. Prior to her appointment to this position, she served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Bellevue College (formerly Bellevue Community College) for twenty-two years. She is widely noted for developing the college into an innovative, nationally-acclaimed institution. Recognized as a leader in higher education, Mrs. Floten is often called upon to speak throughout the state, nation and internationally on technology, education, funding, innovations in teaching, diversity, student access and other education issues.