Long before the rise of the sharing economy, people from numerous industries and sectors enjoyed the flexibility, work-life balance, and other benefits associated with pursuing meaningful, independent work. The Coalition to Promote Independent Entrepreneurs hosted a discussion about the nature of independent work today and in the future, and how independent workers benefit the economy, as seen through the eyes of a leading labor economist and industries that rely on independent contractors. NERA Senior Vice President Dr. Jeffrey A. Eisenach participated in a panel discussion and gave a presentation on “The Role of Independent Contractors in the US Economy,” which explored the overall prevalence of independent contracting, economic reasons for independent contracting, and independent contracting and labor market fluidity.