Successful economic development in any community can depend on hitting the right "formula," one that leverages inherent strengths to create job growth that builds on itself.

Once any industry reaches the size and sophistication that begins to draw similar businesses to the area, this "critical mass" can become a self-feeding job machine.

With the hospitals and other facilities in this area — both civilian and military — health care can be a self-sustaining niche that becomes a real strength of the local economy.

That makes two recent milestones for Pensacola Junior College that much more significant for this area.

First, PJC's nursing program was named by a national industry review panel as the top nursing program among more than 1,000 across the country.

PJC's 100 percent pass rate with the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nursing is, indeed, "totally awesome," as the nursing program's interim director put it.

This not only supports the local hospitals, it sends a message of health care quality here — a draw for both patients and medical professionals.

Second, the school's announced pursuit of state approval for selected four-year degree programs will mean the future graduation of more highly skilled workers. Approval, which could take two years, would add PJC to a list that currently includes only nine of the state's 28 community colleges.

PJC officials indicate the degrees would likely include nursing, math and science education, and applied science — all areas that would be a boost for economic development.

Long gone are the days when a high school education or mechanical aptitude were enough to provide lifetime employment at livable wages. Today it takes education and acquired technical skills.

The University of West Florida and PJC will have to play stronger roles in helping create the educated, technologically advanced workforce the economy demands — and both are embracing the challenge.