In the next couple of months, millions of American teens will be graduating from high school. There was a time when this meant many of them would go off to college, get a degree and start a career. But in recent years, for a variety of reasons, including a sluggish economy and the growing skills gap in the American workforce, many young people are heading back home to live in mom and dad’s basement after receiving that college degree. more

The danger with workforce-development efforts focusing too much on industries that require extensive education and training is that many of those who have been hurt most by the Great Recession are in danger of being left behind as the state slowly climbs its way back. more

From two signatures, great progress can be made. more

A CEO, speaking at a meeting, tells the attendees that “The computers are dow, so we’ll have to choose a fall guy the old-fashioned way … picking a name out of a hat.” more

David Splaine, a real estate professional with RE/Max Professionals, East Greenwich, recently earned the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation, which recognizes Splaine’s experience, knowledge and expertise in the luxury home market. Splaine, who has worked in real estate since 2002, specializes in the Kent County and North Kingstown markets. In addition to being a certified luxury home marketing specialist, he is also a certified residential specialist, certified investor property specialist and accredited buyer representative. Splaine holds a bachelor’s of science degree in business administration from Villanova University. more

Kathleen Seguin has been appointed to the board of directors of Discover Newport. more

Paul M. Rodrigues has been appointed to the board of directors of Discover Newport. more

Rita A. Verespy has been named director of gift planning at the URI Foundation. more

Jacqueline Nowell has been named director of donor relations and stewardship at the URI Foundation. more

John Piotti has been named vice president of operations at Uncas Manufacturing. more