This report explored an increase in educational attainment through academic programs, mentoring, and internships to improve the workforce and increase economic development activities. Education is linked to higher wages, increased job stability and higher job satisfaction. If more people are working and making higher wages then more money is spent in the region, thereby strengthening the economy. Knowledge is power and if a region would like to strengthen its economy, especially fiscally distressed areas, it must take innovative actions to invest in human capital to attract new jobs and economic development.