(The Center Square) – A labor market analytics company produced a new report detailing Bossier Parish Community College’s significant economic and job impact across the northwest region.
The community college generates $501 million in annual economic impact and supports 6,774 jobs, according to Lightcast’s economic impact study released by the college.
Bossier Parish Community College is a public two-year institution that provides associate degrees and certifications focusing on health care, manufacturing and computer technology.
It maintains a strong partnership with the National Cyber Research Park, located next door to its Bossier campus. This collaboration provides state-of-the-art information technology training, cybersecurity curriculum, research opportunities, and valuable internships that can lead to industry jobs.
Lightcast looks at how education and workforce programs affect the economy of local communities. Colleges typically purchase these studies or reports to align programs with workforce needs, track alumni employment outcomes and demonstrate economic impact.
It’s unclear how much the college spent to produce this report. The Center Square was unsuccessful prior to publication getting additional information from the college.
“BPCC is far more than a college,” Chancellor Rick Bateman noted in a press release. “It’s a workforce engine for northwest Louisiana. Every dollar invested here delivers real value for our students, our employers and our taxpayers. We’re developing the skilled talent that strengthens Louisiana’s economy today and fuels the region’s growth for years to come.”
The report says the college produces an “exceptional return on investment.” Students earn $4 for every $1 invested in their education and taxpayers receive $4.20 for every $1 invested in the college.
According to the college, total impact represents 2.1% of the region’s gross regional product, with one out of every 38 jobs in northwest Louisiana supported by the college and its students.
Alumni contribute $454.9 million annually in added income to the regional economy; they earn an average of $10,800 more per year than high school graduates; and the college supports workforce pipelines across healthcare, technical services and other critical industries, according to the college.
It is achieving its mission to develop a skilled workforce aligned with regional industry needs and retain local talent.
“When you invest in BPCC, you’re investing directly in Louisiana’s workforce and its future,” Bateman added. “Our mission is simple and unwavering – prepare students for high‑wage, high‑demand careers and deliver meaningful economic value to the communities we proudly serve.”
