A four year degree can take considerable time and money, and the payoff in the end, for some, might not equal the investment. An option that many are considering in this tough economy is pursuing certification, associates degrees, and higher education through community colleges. This route can provide an ideal solution for those already in the workforce who might be looking to advance further in their fields. A two year degree or certification can help working students to learn new skills in fields such as advanced manufacturing, strengthening their experience base. This article outlines some of what is happening in local colleges, and how some students are incorporating the programs into their work schedules.