By Emma Jade, Local News 8 Reporter

IDAHO FALLS - In this economy, it is imperative that an employee becomes indispensable. Because of that fact, many folks of all ages are heading back to school.

To ensure some stability in this shaky economy, student Tina Carlson went back to school.

"The higher education, the more valuable you are."

Hundreds of others across the nation are following this trend.

"We're seeing people try and upgrade their skills," said Eastern Idaho Technical College Director of College Relations, Todd Wightman. "Whether they lost their job or not, they're looking at the future and seeing trends there where they need to improve their lives."

To beat the economic system, folks might have to become a more valuable employee. For many, the way to get there is higher education.

"If you are someone that is learning something constantly or have that knowledge base, they're going to be more apt to keep you," said EITC student, Stacy Barzee.

Carlson added, "Without my education, I would be deathly afraid to try and find a job right now."

Technical schools are a fast, quick way to gain knowledge and experience in a person's field of choice.

In the first quarter of 2009 alone, EITC saw a 31 percent increase in GED testing over the last three year average.

"We can speculate that there are people coming back, again to improve their skills, that maybe skipped high school for whatever reason and found a job and had been OK to this point, but now they need to improve their situation," said Wightman.

This spring semester, EITC experienced a six percent increase from last year.

For approved applications for the 2009 fall semester, the month of February experienced a 50 percent increase, and March - a 70 percent increase.

More people are turning to advanced education because it may increase job security.

"You know I just want to be in a place where I can afford my house, my vehicles insurance, and educating my own children," said Carlson.

For a mother looking to put her children through college, this experience at EITC offers some peace of mind.

On Tuesday, April 14th from 8am to 3:30pm, the school will host "Job Options 2009: Recession Rebound." The event costs five dollars. It includes a job fair, workshops, and information about social services.