Bipartisan resolution recognizes workforce development as vital to economic growth

Press Release

U.S. Senators Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., and Todd Young, R-Ind., introduced a bipartisan resolution to encourage investment in education and training for American workers by designating September 2019 as "National Workforce Development Month." The resolution supports federal programs that promote workforce development and recognizes the crucial role they play in growing our economy.

"Growing a strong economy starts with preparing the next generation with proper technical education," Enzi said. "I am pleased the Senate again recognized the need for reliable workforce development to continue supporting our hardworking Americans. This September, we celebrate initiatives and programs that help students obtain valued skills. With the Career and Technical Education Act in action, there is no better time to applaud the hardworking workforce that is at the foundation of our economy."

"A skilled and experienced workforce is essential to the success of our economy," said Feinstein. "As technological advances reshape traditional jobs and create new ones entirely, we must invest in training and education programs so our workers can keep pace. These initiatives keep American workers competitive and I'm proud to recognize them with this resolution."

Access to effective workforce education and training programs are critical to supporting workers and expanding access to living wage jobs. Federal programs and funding provide the foundation for these programs. The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act of 2018 supports the development and implementation of high-quality CTE programs and has served 12 million high school and college students from 2016 to 2017.

Programs authorized under the bipartisan Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 served nearly 6 million young people and adults in 2018 and exceeded employment targets across all programs. Nationwide, there are more than 550 workforce development boards and 2,500 American Job Centers that work with job seekers and employers across industries ranging from healthcare and information technology to manufacturing and construction.