Puerto Rico’s strongest competitive edge is its people. With a highly skilled workforce, strong educational foundations, a growing pipeline of STEM professionals, and a clear commitment to innovation, the island combines globally competitive skills with a vision for long-term growth, positioning it as one of the most promising business destinations in the Americas. 

A Talent Pool with Global Relevance

For decades, Puerto Rico has been a cradle of STEM talent with global impact. The island has over 80 accredited universities and colleges, including the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPR-M), which is recognized as the #1 institution in the U.S. for graduating Hispanic engineers.  

According to a study commissioned by InvestPR, nearly 50% of Puerto Rico’s university graduates each year come from STEM disciplines, representing around 21,000 professionals annually in health, biology, engineering, and applied technologies. Close to 40,000 graduates enter the workforce every year, and 70% of all degrees awarded are in STEM and business, outpacing U.S. averages. This ensures companies have access to a talent pipeline ready to meet the demands of a knowledge-driven economy. 

Puerto Rico’s strengths are also recognized globally. In the 2025 IMD World Talent Ranking, the island ranked 39th out of 69 economies, surpassing established economies such as Japan (#40) and Italy (#41), and positioning itself close to major players like China (#38) and South Korea (#37).  

Among the island’s key strengths are the high proportion of graduates in STEM disciplines, the international experience of senior executives, and the availability of highly skilled labor. Together, these reinforce Puerto Rico’s position as a globally competitive hub for talent. 

Driving Growth Through Skills and Education

The government has set an ambitious goal of reaching 60% post-secondary attainment by 2030. Programs like the 21st Century Techforce Initiative and the Workforce Training Program are expanding opportunities in technology, healthcare, aerospace, and construction. With federal and local support, Puerto Rico is building a workforce designed for tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities. 

Emerging Sectors, Expanding Opportunities

According to the study, Puerto Rico’s economy is diversifying, creating exciting opportunities across high-growth industries: 

• Technology: The island attracts investment in AI, software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. 

• Renewable Energy: Puerto Rico’s clean energy transition generates installation, maintenance, and advanced energy manufacturing jobs. 

• Tourism & Creative Industries: Eco-tourism and cultural tourism are adding new dimensions to one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic sectors. 

• Biosciences & Pharmaceuticals: Already a global leader in biopharma, Puerto Rico continues to attract world-class companies, strengthening U.S. supply chains. 

• Construction: Federal recovery and infrastructure projects will sustain demand for skilled workers for the next decade. 

• Aerospace: Specialized training programs prepare a new generation of aerospace professionals, aligning the island with one of the fastest-growing global industries. 

By 2030, industries like healthcare, government, and retail will remain strong employment drivers, but Puerto Rico’s real advantage lies in its preparation of talent for future-facing sectors that demand technical expertise and adaptability. 

A Future-Ready Ecosystem

Automation and AI are already reshaping the global workforce. In Puerto Rico, this shift is viewed as an opportunity. Local universities, training programs, and employers invest in reskilling and digital literacy, ensuring that workers adapt to change and lead it. 

Why Puerto Rico for Investors

Puerto Rico offers a unique combination for businesses looking to expand: 

• A bilingual, U.S.-educated workforce with strong technical and soft skills. 

• Competitive labor costs compared to U.S. states and other global markets. 

• A robust pipeline of STEM professionals fueling innovation. 

• Strategic incentives under Act 60 and seamless access to U.S. and global markets. 

Puerto Rico’s workforce is ready for today and what’s next. For investors, that means confidence in the island’s long-term growth, resilience, and innovation.