NESP's work has become particularly important because of demographic pressures that are influencing the labor market. The declining birth rate and an aging workforce have contributed to competition for skilled people. A 2002 survey of governments across Canada found that the top six skills in need of improvement for the labor market are (in order of priority) communication skills, creativity and innovation, the ability to manage stress, adaptability/flexibility, a focus on results, and an emphasis on customer service. The NESP emphasizes the link between employability skills and meeting workplace expectations. By helping offenders develop their employability skills, improve their capacity for practical judgment, and generate an impressive work record while they are still incarcerated, the NESP helps offenders prepare for employment in the contemporary labor market. The NESP uses more than 100 problem-based exercises to help offenders enhance their job readiness by improving their work performance in supervised employment experiences and by helping offenders bring their employability skills, attitudes, and behavior up to the standards of employers who are seeking skilled and dependable workers. 6 notes