The Future of Higher Ed

As part of the Future of Texas series in partnership with Texas 2036, this episode explores how higher education will shape the state’s workforce, economy, and long-term competitiveness. Through the Future of Texas podcast series, Texas 2036 brings together diverse perspectives as we explore the opportunities and challenges facing our state over the next ten years. The views expressed in this program are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Texas 2036, its staff or its Board of Directors. Host Brad Swail is joined by Texas A&M Chancellor Glenn Hegar and David Leebron, President and CEO of Texas 2036 and former President of Rice University, for a comprehensive look at the future of higher education in a rapidly growing Texas. With millions more Texans expected by 2036, the conversation examines how universities are adapting to rising demand, changing workforce needs, and growing concerns about the cost and value of a college degree. A major theme is the evolving role of higher education — not just as a pathway to jobs, but as a driver of innovation, economic growth, and opportunity across the state. The discussion covers: • How Texas’ population growth is reshaping higher education demand • The gap between workforce needs and degree attainment • Why more Texans need postsecondary credentials • The role of regional universities and community colleges • Affordability challenges and pathways to lower student debt • Differences between public and private institutions • The importance of leadership, flexibility, and institutional independence • Collaboration across universities and with industry • How research drives innovation and new industries • Texas’ growing role in semiconductors and advanced manufacturing • Why space exploration is becoming a major economic opportunity • The future of nuclear energy and meeting rising power demand • The importance of K–12 readiness in long-term success • How policymakers can better align education with workforce needs The episode also highlights a key shift: universities are increasingly serving as hubs for talent development, research, and industry collaboration — all critical to maintaining Texas’ economic momentum. Looking ahead to 2036, success will be measured not just by enrollment, but by outcomes — including workforce readiness, income growth, and the ability of Texas institutions to compete globally. 00:00 — Intro + Future of Texas series overview 00:26 — Why higher education matters for Texas’ future 01:10 — Guest introductions: Glenn Hegar & David Leebron 02:14 — Texas A&M system size and statewide reach 03:19 — Growth across Texas universities 05:00 — Competing for students in a growing state 07:12 — Workforce demand vs degree attainment gap 08:51 — Expanding university missions and impact 10:18 — Growth of AI, semiconductors, and emerging industries 11:44 — Collaboration across universities and systems 13:13 — Interdisciplinary innovation and research 14:09 — Public vs private universities explained 15:55 — Leadership and institutional flexibility 17:09 — Affordability challenges in higher education 18:01 — Community colleges and alternative pathways 19:07 — Financial aid transparency and access 20:21 — Policy priorities for the next decade 21:57 — Investing in research and innovation 23:04 — K–12 pipeline and readiness challenges 24:59 — Space industry growth and Texas’ role 27:35 — Economic impact of space innovation 30:37 — Semiconductor investment and workforce pipeline 33:10 — Universities and private industry collaboration 36:14 — Nuclear energy and future power needs 38:46 — Measuring success by 2036 41:15 — Final thoughts on leadership and opportunity 43:07 — Closing Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks