Senate Resolution 632--Designating September 2018 As ``National Workforce Development Month''

Floor Speech

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Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce a resolution to recognize September as ``Workforce Development Month.'' I thank Senators Hatch, Enzi, and Baldwin for supporting this bipartisan resolution.

As technological advances reshape traditional fields and fuel the emergence of new industries, it is imperative that our workforce development system remain agile and flexible in order to educate and train the next generation of workers and those needing additional on- the-job training skills to stay competitive.

In addition, it is vital that we recognize the importance of all career pathways and professional development--whether an individual pursues a four year degree or seeks to further their education at a community college, through an industry recognized certificate program, or as an apprentice.

In an effort to face this challenge head on, Congress passed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act in 2014 (WIOA) with overwhelming bipartisan support. WIOA was signed into law by President Obama and has helped streamline the workforce development system while increasing and strengthening partnerships between regional businesses, workforce development boards, and educational institutions.

And more recently, Congress passed the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, which was later signed into law by President Trump. This law aims to increase collaboration between high schools, community colleges, and workforce development programs. In addition, this law supports work-based learning opportunities, provides industry-recognized credentials, and increases federal funding for CTE programs.

In fact, it is these partnerships that have proven to be key to regional success at addressing the workforce needs of businesses. By working together, local businesses and educators can ensure that not only do businesses have access to the talent they need to grow but that those seeking work can find it.

Nationwide, the more than 550 workforce development boards and 2,500 American Job Centers have become a driving force behind growing regional economies by providing training, resources, and assistance to workers aiming to compete in the 21st century economy.

These workforce development boards and American Job Centers work with job seekers and employers across industries ranging from healthcare and information technology to manufacturing and construction.

There are currently over half a million registered apprentices across the country, including nearly eighty-six thousand in California alone. Bipartisan support for earn-and-learn approaches, such as apprenticeships and paid internships, is critical for helping future workers gain the skills and experience they need while being able to provide for themselves and their families.

In recognition of workforce development month, Congress reaffirms its support for a comprehensive approach to workforce development, encourages partnerships between industry leaders and educators, and emphasizes the importance of all career pathways in pursuit of economic prosperity.

In closing, during this month it is essential that we acknowledge and commend the professionals who work every day to make these efforts a reality. America's workforce is the backbone of our economy and it is the expertise, dedication, and knowledge of these professionals that has helped develop such a robust system.

Mr. President, I hope this resolution will promptly pass the Senate. I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this resolution to ensure its passage and encouraging the continued growth of our workforce development system. Thank you.

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