Roots & Routes: 

Why America Cannot Afford to Lose Its International Talent

America is facing a growing talent crisis. While employers struggle to fill critical workforce shortages, thousands of highly educated international graduates and skilled professionals face barriers to contributing their skills. Drawing on research, economic data, and policy analysis, this report examines the consequences of losing global talent and the opportunities created by retaining it. It offers practical, evidence-based recommendations to help policymakers, employers, universities, and communities strengthen workforce integration and ensure the United States remains competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

This publication is an independent research report intended to inform public discussion. The findings and recommendations reflect the authors’ analysis and do not represent the official views of any affiliated organization, employer, university, government agency, or funding partner.