In early 2000, Florida's workforce wasn't keeping pace with demand. The state decided that a then-novel credential, a bachelor's degree from a community college, was the solution. The plan is working. The new bachelor's degrees initially focused on education, health care, and information technology. Even as the job market has shrunk, demand has remained high for nurses and teachers in particular fields, including math, science, and special education. The programs have grown to include public safety and biomedical sciences, to keep up with changing workforce needs. Job-placement rates are strong. Many students who earn bachelor's degrees from community colleges earn higher salaries than their counterparts from public, four-year universities, because the community colleges' curricula are tailored to well-paying jobs waiting for them upon graduation. Florida leads the way with 19 community colleges authorized to award bachelor's degrees, in fields as varied as cardiopulmonary sciences, interior design, banking, fire-science management, and digital media. Florida ranks 30th in the nation in college attainment, with only 27% of its labor force holding bachelor's degrees or higher, according to the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Additional bachelor's degree holders will be essential as Florida makes a transition to a more knowledge-based economy, say state leaders. The state wants to diversify by expanding several key industries, including homeland security and defense, life sciences, and aviation and aerospace.