National Apprenticeship Act of 2021

Floor Speech

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Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record support for this bill from the National Electrical Contractors Association. [From NECA, February 1, 2021] Media Contact: Matt Kraus, Director, Communications National Electrical Contractors Association.

The National Electrical Contractors Association issued the following statement in support of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021:

``The National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 is a direct investment in our workforce, the trades, and the entire electrical construction industry. It will invest more than $3.5 billion toward expanding opportunities and access to apprenticeships in the United States in the next five years, totaling nearly 1 million new apprenticeship opportunities. NECA supports the National Apprenticeship Act and encourages Congress to push this legislation forward to help grow America's skilled workforce.'' ABOUT THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

NECA is the voice of the $171 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light and communication technology to buildings and communities across the United States. NECA's national office and 118 local chapters advance the industry through advocacy, education, research and standards development. Go to www.necanet.org for more information.

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Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for H.R. 447, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021.

In the middle of this global pandemic and economic crisis, Americans need hope and they need work. Today's legislation is a meaningful step to increase access to registered apprenticeships. Apprenticeships remain one of the most successful workforce development programs for new entrants and those seeking a new career.

According to the Department of Labor, 94 percent of people who complete apprenticeships are employed upon completion and earn an average salary of over $70,000. As a Representative for the cities of Toledo, Lorain, Sandusky, Cleveland, and Parma, all of which boast a strong automotive heritage, it is difficult to overemphasize the value of these apprenticeships for young people and adults starting careers in the automotive trades.

So whether it is the expertise to rebuild an engine, replace a battery in a hybrid vehicle, perfect biofuels, or TIG weld the rear quarter panel of an old Wagoneer, there will always be a market for skilled craftspeople who can repair or restore modern and classic vehicles, and invent the vehicles of the future, as happened with my own brother, Steve, who did it for many years as a race car driver and a patent holder.

I strongly support this legislation for over a million apprenticeship opportunities over the next 5 years to strengthen this economy and bring people the skills that are needed to operate successful enterprises.

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