Oklahoma needs a qualified workforce to compete in today’s economy. The chancellor of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education presented an encouraging portrait of how the state’s colleges and universities help meet that need. Allison D. Garrett told those gathered at the State of Education luncheon this week that colleges keep finding new ways to support Oklahoma’s workforce. Garrett said career-focused credentials — micro-credentials — are one way colleges help Oklahoma businesses and industries. Employees can pursue micro-credentials online to boost their careers and the micro-credentials will count toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. This is one way to improve career advancement while on the job. Micro-credentials will provide additional skills to anyone who needs them.