Declarations alone won’t create economic opportunity for working people and small business owners. Now is the time for the President and Congress to back up that commitment with meaningful investment and legislative action. 

Jobs requiring skills training are the backbone of the American economy. America’s greatest strength is its people: a diverse workforce and small business owners who create nearly two-thirds of new jobs. For too long, Congress failed to invest in the very people who keep our economy running. That must change. 

The Executive Order rightly aims to strengthen training for in-demand jobs, particularly in emerging industries. It includes:  

• A Directive for the Secretaries of Labor, Commerce and Education to review all federal workforce programs and develop a report to serve as the foundation of a “comprehensive worker investment and development strategy.” NSC has long championed the alignment in efforts across these agencies—those which lead the training, education, and economic development activities on which workers and businesses rely. The EO, however, requires the agencies to compile  recommendations to “restructure and consolidate [workforce] programs.” This is reminiscent of the Workforce Advisory Council during Trump’s first term. The council offered significant—and often important—recommendations on modernizing our public workforce ecosystem. It also, however, called for drastic cuts in funding and program elimination that would have undermined the stated goal.
• A call to expand apprenticeship in the U.S., increasing participation to 1 million workers. This goal is consistent with calls from President Trump’s first term. The EO yesterday was signed contemporaneously with another on AI and education. Taken together, the two executive orders task DOL with offering guidance to states on spending WIOA dollars to advance apprenticeship, with a focus on what the EO terms, “AI-related occupations.” The “Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for American Youth” EO notably instructs DOL to work with practitioners and businesses/associations to “develop standards to be registered on a nationwide basis, enabling individual employers to adopt the standards without requiring individual registry.” While focused on registered programs, this piece of the EO suggests the Trump Administration is revamping efforts from the first administration to advance Industry-Recognized Apprenticeships Programs (IRAPs). This effort, if implemented in a way that aligns with our current system, could offer a fix to the challenges of those IRAPs efforts.
   
• Direction to these same three agencies to improve alignment and transparency in outcome reporting for workforce programs. Data quality, program alignment, and reducing burdens on grantees are all important components of a modernized workforce system, consistent with NSC’s recommendations for WIOA.  

However, without bold investment and policies that work for all working people, this order risks becoming an unfulfilled promise. To create ladders to good jobs and clear career pathways, here’s what the Trump Administration and Congress can do:

1. Champion and Adequately Fund Workforce Development Programs

We cannot build a skilled workforce with minimal investment. Critical workforce development programs like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE), community colleges, and Registered Apprenticeships are chronically underfunded. The U.S. invests less in workforce policies than almost any other industrialized country. Over the past two decades, Congress has repeatedly cut funding for key workforce programs, even as demand has grown. That underinvestment tells skilled workers—healthcare techs, construction crews, IT specialists, and many others—that their work isn’t valued. 

Moreover, programs and investments should be tailored for today’s workforce, or we risk leaving critical talent on the table. People of color and women comprise nearly half of the working class and nearly 1 in 5 workers in America are immigrants— for a workforce solution to truly be comprehensive, policies must address this reality.

2. Strengthen Business Engagement Through Industry Partnerships

Sector-based partnerships—those that bring together employers, workers, education and training providers, and community organizations—are essential to ensuring that training leads to in-demand jobs and real career opportunities. Reauthorizing WIOA with robust funding and a strong emphasis on industry partnerships will help align workforce training with local business needs. That includes supporting digital skills training, funding high-quality workforce data, and enhancing supportive services that help workers stay on track. This focus would create the opportunity to scale solutions—across local areas, industries, and our country—by the stakeholders the EO identifies as composing the workforce ecosystem.

3. Expand Access to Pell Grants for Short-Term Training

The bipartisan JOBS Act would allow students to use Pell Grants for high-quality, short-term credential programs at community colleges. These programs open doors to good jobs in growing fields—but right now, too many workers can’t afford to enroll. It’s a commonsense step Congress can take immediately to expand opportunity.

4. Protect programs that make upskilling and reskilling possible

Medicaid, SNAP, and other safety net programs are critical to helping workers complete training, care for their families, and transition into new careers. Proposals to cut or restrict access to these programs directly undermine the goals of the EO. To realize the stated vision, the Trump Administration and Congress should ensure that across their investments and policy changes—even those outside of traditional “workforce” programs—propel workers to success and meet businesses’ needs. Program alignment is critical to workers’ ability to upskill and reskill and businesses’ ability to hire for in-demand roles. 

We’ll be watching closely for next steps. 

At National Skills Coalition, we’ll be reviewing budget proposals and legislative actions throughout the year to see whether they match the vision laid out in the Executive Order—or fall short. And we’ll be calling on our network of workers, employers, and advocates to take action to ensure our country invests in a workforce and economy that works for everyone. 

While Executive Orders signal intent; budgets and laws determine impact and opportunity. 

The post President Trump’s Executive Order on Skilled Trade Jobs Is a Start—But We Need Real Investment for America’s Workers appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

Industry sector partnerships (ISP) are a proven way to build strong talent pipelines that train workers for quality, in-demand jobs and help businesses address labor shortages. They succeed by bringing together key stakeholders such as businesses, training providers, higher education, community-based organizations, and labor organizations to create training strategies collaboratively. The Michigan Energy Workforce Development Consortium (MEWDC) shows what’s possible when states and business leaders work together to create and advocate for the growth of ISPs.  

In the late 2000s, local labor unions in Michigan and major utility companies including DTE Energy and Consumers Energy recognized that upcoming retirements and general attrition would strain the energy industry’s workforce. Broadening the talent pipeline to provide more on-ramps to energy jobs was critical, but key investments in the training system would be costly.  

Given this reality, the State of Michigan saw a need for partnership between businesses, organized labor, K-12 schools, higher education, and the workforce development system. The administration convened these partners to begin discussing the development of an ISP, and in 2008, MEWDC was born.  

State and federal funding underpinned MEWDC’s ability to achieve its goals, and business voices championed efforts to secure the investments and advocate for them throughout its lifespan.  

KEY LEARNINGS  

• Timing is Everything: Enacting workforce development policy frequently occurs when the “stars are aligned.” In this case, businesses were confronting a workforce problem they could not solve alone and sought to build a workforce that reflected the people who lived in the communities that they served. At the same time, a new governor was taking office who prioritized investments in workforce development strategies. Taken together, these dynamics created a situation that was ripe for advancing industry sector partnership policy.  

• State Government as a Convener: Securing stakeholder commitment takes real time and energy and can be difficult, so identifying an influential leader(s) that can bring the necessary stakeholders to the table is critical. A Governor’s office, for example, is uniquely positioned to lead this kind of effort and can bring business leaders to the table. As MEWDC took shape, experts from state agencies built relationships with energy companies over time and demonstrated how the state’s workforce and education systems can train workers for quality, in-demand jobs.

  The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) spearheads the integration of Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) into its sector strategies work with the MEWDC and other employer-led collaboratives.

  “We recognize the consortium’s ongoing efforts are critical as stakeholders work together to develop training solutions that benefit our state’s workers — offering pathways to financial security for themselves and their families — and providing employers with access to a large pool of highly-skilled workers,” said Krista Johnson, LEO’s Deputy Director of Workforce Development. “With the TPM model supporting our efforts, Michigan’s employer-led collaboratives are playing a critical role in growing our economy.” 

• Business Voices Were Critical to Advancing Public Investment: Throughout the life of the partnership, more than 600 workers have secured employment in the energy industry, and over 1,450 students have earned an industry-recognized credential. These outcomes galvanized business support for the MEWDC, and spurred companies to advocate for sector partnership advancements at the state and federal levels.
   

As MEWDC Co-Chair Christopher HooSang,  DTE Energy Director – Corporate HR ＆ Innovation explains, “By working hand-in-hand with state leaders, our industry has demonstrated the critical need for public investment in workforce development. We’ve provided data-driven insights on job demand, training gaps, and economic impact, which have directly influenced funding decisions. This collaboration has positioned MEWDC to have ‘asking rights’ for national, state, and local public funding, ensuring we can sustain and scale these efforts.” 

The coalition’s ability to engage energy companies was built on trust and strong relationships that were built over time in addition to successful outcomes. 

• Leveraging WIOA Funding: Policy advocacy does not always involve promoting new investments but taking advantage of flexibility in existing resources. With state support, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I 15% Discretionary Funds were allocated to MEWDC and other partnerships – a choice allowed, but not required, under WIOA legislation. 

Today, the MEWDC continues to broaden the talent pipeline for careers in the energy sector and has grown to include more clean energy companies, including energy efficiency and renewable companies in addition to large utility companies. Although they are competitors, their mutual need for workers with specific skills and competencies brought them together to tackle workforce challenges. MEWDC Co-Chair Christopher HooSang  adds, “What makes MEWDC successful is that it’s not just talk—it’s action. Businesses, educators, and policymakers are all committed to building a sustainable workforce, and we’ve already seen the impact with hundreds of workers trained and employed.” Maintaining the MEWDC, though, has required strong support from the business community and their willingness to advocate for public investments in skills training.  

The post How Businesses Advance Industry Sector Partnership Investments: Michigan Energy Workforce Development Consortium appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

The CR rescinded $75 million from the Dislocated Worker National Reserve, not to be confused with the Dislocated Worker Formula Grants, funded at $301 million. These critical resources support workers and communities recovering from economic disruptions, natural disasters, and public health crises through grants, such as: 

• Quality Jobs, Equity, Strategy and Training (QUEST) Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants 

• National Health Emergency Disaster Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants 

• Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants 

• Strengthening Community College Training Grants 

• Workforce Pathways for Youth 

• Critical Sector Job Quality Grants 

• Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) 

Additionally, the bill eliminates $107.8 million in congressionally directed workforce funding, the same amount approved for specific projects in FY24. These cuts mean local workforce projects, targeted job training and employment initiatives will have fewer resources.  

The chart below illustrates the number of projects and total funding included in the Senate appropriations for Department of Labor for FY25. Since the House did not allow community projects for the Department of Labor in FY25, only the Senate allocated funding. The chart also highlights projects that were likely to receive awards, with Delaware facing the largest loss of potential funding. 

The elimination of these funds significantly reduces access to workforce training and supportive services across the country; underscores a continued underinvestment in federal workforce programs; and limits opportunities for workers and businesses Without these resources and increased investments in workforce programs more broadly, communities will struggle to  connect people to in-demand careers, and help businesses find skilled workers. 

What’s Next? 

With the CR finalized, Congress now turns its attention to FY26 appropriations, reconciliation, and raising the debt ceiling—all of which are expected to be contentious and will involve key funding decisions that impact workforce programs As you will recall from our recent blog The Fight for Workforce Funding: Key 2025 Deadlines Every Advocate Should Know, the reconciliation process begins with a budget resolution and requires only a majority in the Senate unlike most other legislation that is considered by the chamber.  The process already began with the House and Senate advancing separate budget resolutions. The Senate passed a resolution that proposed a reconciliation process that split energy and border components from tax cuts.  

The House budget resolution, on the other hand, combined energy, border policy, and tax cuts into a single package, allocating $4 trillion for a debt limit increase,  $4.5 trillion for tax cuts, and deep cuts to federal programs including $880 billion in cuts to programs under the jurisdiction of Energy and Commerce Committee, $230 billion in cuts to programs under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committee, and $330 billion in cuts to programs under the jurisdiction of the Education and Workforce Committee. It should be noted that while the Senate initially passed a separate budget resolution, it is expected that the Senate will consider the House budget resolution at the end of March. 

While the specifics of these cuts are still uncertain, it is likely that some portion of cuts will target Medicaid either through benefits cuts or work requirements which generally do not help individuals find unsubsidized employment in the long-term. Cuts are also expected to target rolling back energy tax provisions from the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Rescinding investments including those focused on infrastructure and clean energy threatens ongoing projects with some projects already being put on hold in part due to uncertainty in funding. 

Some Republican lawmakers in the House have voiced concerns over potential changes to energy tax incentives. More than 20 Republican legislators recently sent a letter to House leadership warning that limiting or phasing out these incentives could disrupt capital investments, raise utility costs, and undermine energy independence. 

Additionally, as Congress navigates the debt ceiling debate, Democrats may leverage the Senate’s lack of a filibuster-proof majority to advance their priorities. With narrow majorities in both chambers, even a small group of lawmakers could create opportunities to resist deep cuts to workforce programs. 

While the House budget, which the Senate plans to consider, includes a debt ceiling increase, the U.S. may hit the debt ceiling before Congress completes the reconciliation process leading to  separate debt ceiling negotiations. Additionally, Congress will need to start working on FY26 appropriations. Both of these will require approval from 60 members of the Senate. Along with narrow House majority, Democrats may have the most leverage to negotiate key priorities including protecting workforce programs from further cuts.  

How Advocates Can Continue to Take Action 

Advocates should continue demonstrating the impact of workforce investments by sharing real-life stories of how funding cuts affect workers, employers, and communities. These narratives help policymakers understand the tangible, real-world value of  federal workforce initiatives and build support for them among lawmakers. 

Additionally, advocates are encouraged to join us in May for the Skills Summit, where we will be pressing for policies outlined in Equipping Workers, Building Futures: Federal Policies for a Skilled America. 

The post Congress Slashes Workforce Funding: What Workforce Advocates Need to Know appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

This goal isn’t new: for decades, Republicans and Democrats alike have set policies to increase the economic return on postsecondary education for students, employers, and taxpayers. But the Trump Administration’s attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion in education will make this goal much harder to achieve. For postsecondary education to produce the best possible results and give students a fair shot at real opportunity, college needs to work for everyone. This makes equity a required feature of our postsecondary education system, not a bug.  

As members of Congress, state policymakers, and higher education institutions navigate the Trump Administration’s executive orders and guidance, they must continue to design postsecondary policies to produce fair outcomes. The future of the nation’s workforce, businesses, and economy depends on it. 

Giving all students a fair shot at success 

Community and technical colleges are on the frontlines of preparing the workforce of today and tomorrow. In fact, community college students account for about two in five of all U.S. undergraduates. Community college students are incredibly diverse: 58% are people of color, 57% are women, 32% are first in their families to attend college, and 23% are students with disabilities.  

This diversity is a major benefit to learning environments. Diverse classrooms have been shown to improve critical thinking and problem solving, increase satisfaction and motivation, and foster creativity and collaboration. These skills matter in today’s economy. It’s no wonder that three in four Americans think that all students benefit when colleges and universities reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the United States.  

Yet for generations, postsecondary education did not include or extend equal opportunity to the groups of people who make up most of today’s students. For example: 

• Many states excluded students of color from land grant colleges created with federal land and funds in 1862 and more recently withheld $13 billion of funding to historically Black land-grant institutions.  

• Only 12 percent of Black veterans went to college on the GI bill compared with 28 percent of white veterans due to discrimination and segregation in higher education. 

• Students of color and students from low-income backgrounds were often tracked into vocational programs with limited economic mobility. Women were also steered into courses on family, childcare, home economics, and teaching. 

Policies like these (and many others) have undermined meritocracy in education and the workforce. Indeed, today’s racial disparities in postsecondary education are the result of public policies that opened the door to a few by closing it shut on many others. If our nation is ever to fully realize the potential of postsecondary education as a path to prosperity, public policies must remedy our nation’s past and support the diverse needs of today’s students.  

That’s where equity comes into play. Everyone has a right to real opportunity and success. Equity makes merit possible by leveling the playing field so that people who have been disadvantaged have a fair shot at opportunity and success. In this regard, equity is key to ensuring that postsecondary education leads to a well-paying career for millions of students, especially those at community colleges.  

Instead of spending precious public resources shuttering diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, policymakers should invest in policies that deliver a better and fairer economic future for today’s students. These include policies that make postsecondary education more affordable, support students holistically, strengthen industry-community college partnerships and career pathways, and use data to ensure better and fairer outcomes. 

Such policies can reduce unfair barriers disproportionately faced by students of color, those with low incomes, and adult learners, while achieving better outcomes for everyone. For example, stronger tuition assistance programs would have an outsized impact on Black adults who have the highest rates of student loan debt due in part to longstanding racial wealth and income gaps. But they would also benefit working people of all backgrounds who need college to be more affordable.  

Equitable education propels our economy forward 

Equitable postsecondary education policies don’t just benefit students; they are also crucial for ensuring that businesses can grow. At a time when key industries – from construction to health care – are facing workforce shortages, our nation’s businesses can’t afford to leave talent on the table.  

The vast majority of jobs in today’s economy require some form of postsecondary education or training, including a majority of jobs (52%) that require education and training beyond high school but not a four-year degree. Systemic barriers that limit access to skills training and credentials for people of color, women, and first-generation students make it harder for businesses to fill in-demand roles and hold the economy back.  

By contrast, the rich diversity of our nation’s students and workers is a unique strength that can fuel American innovation and propel our economy. Research shows that diverse workplaces lead to higher financial returns for employers, including  increased sales revenue, customers, and profitability. Indeed, the growing diversity of the American workforce was a major contributor to U.S. economic growth in the latter half of the 20th century – more than 25% of the country’s growth in productivity between 1960 and 2008 was associated with reducing occupational barriers for Black people and women. 

In a diverse nation that aims to uphold justice for all, equity is both an economic and moral imperative. Members of Congress and state policymakers of all political parties should support efforts to equalize opportunity in postsecondary education so that everyone has what they need to succeed. They can start by ensuring that postsecondary education leads to good jobs not just for a select few but for people of every background.  

The post Equity is a Feature, not a Bug—And It’s Essential for Postsecondary Success appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

Q. What should we be picturing when we talk about tech jobs?

The headlines you see about layoffs in the tech industry are obscuring an important truth. A huge range of today’s technology jobs exist in everyday industries far removed from Silicon Valley. They include roles like:

• Cybersecurity professionals protecting local utilities and hospitals 

• User experience designers working with public benefits agencies  

• Geographic information systems (GIS) experts supporting real estate companies and housing agencies 

• Machine learning specialists overseeing retail data analysis  

• And many more roles in private industry, nonprofit organizations, and state and local government 

Understanding this reality is important because it enables advocates and policymakers to more accurately prepare people for the jobs that exist in their local communities. These jobs are especially valuable during times of economic uncertainty, because they often provide more durable, reliable employment than the market-driven fluctuations of a few high-profile companies. 

(Want to get more background on digital skills? In 2023, NSC’s analysis of 43 million “Help Wanted” ads demonstrated the widespread demand for digital skills across industries: 92 percent of postings required such skills. This includes occupations primarily focused on technology – such as those described above — as well as jobs where technology plays a more peripheral role.)

Q. How does tech play out in the retail sector, for example?

Did you know that the retail industry is the third-largest employer of web and digital interface designers? (I didn’t, until I started this research.) It makes sense when you think about the continuing growth of the e-commerce sector. 

The thing about retail is that it exists in every community in the country. It’s not one of those industries that is localized to a specific region. Workforce leaders don’t always think about career pathways into the retail industry, but when you realize the outsize role that tech jobs play at retail giants like L’Oreal, it gives you a different perspective. Data scientists analyzing consumer demand, product developers creating new website technologies, logistics specialists ensuring the supply chain meets sustainability standards…there’s a whole world of tech jobs that support retail businesses!  

Happily, some workforce organizations are thinking about the best ways to create on-ramps to tech jobs for entry-level retail workers, including opportunity youth.   

Q. What do tech jobs look like at the municipal level?

Almost every city these days has a team of tech workers that help to analyze data and improve services to city residents. Here is Baltimore’s team, for example. These aren’t just IT workers keeping legacy systems running. They also include User Experience (UX) designers who are rethinking processes from the ground up. 

As one journalist described Baltimore’s work: “The group’s first project was to modernize permitting; instead of going to several offices in person to obtain permits for events and street closures, people can now apply online. It seems simple, but for the local government, that’s a huge deal.” 

In rural communities, the picture is more mixed. One recent study found that although there are 24,000 tech workers in public-sector jobs in rural communities, this number would nearly double if rural communities were hiring for those jobs at the same rate as their urban counterparts.  

There is also some really cool work happening at the intersection of nonprofit organizations and state agencies. For example, the nonprofit Code for America worked with California officials to develop GetCalFresh, an app that helps people apply for SNAP benefits. It’s a stunningly successful example of tech workers designing tools that actually work for real people on the ground.  

Q. What does workforce development have to do with ransomware attacks?

To put it bluntly, workforce leaders should be moving quickly to invest in cybersecurity training programs. Local communities across the US are already facing real-life consequences because of cyber attacks, and they can’t protect themselves if there aren’t enough qualified cybersecurity professionals available to hire.

To step back for a second, ransomware attacks are basically when a bad actor takes control of a company’s computer system and demands a payoff to give it back. Lots of ordinary Americans have already been affected by these attacks, which have cut off access to prescription medications, threatened the safety of the water supply, and caused ambulances to be diverted.   

The pace of these attacks is increasing: Utility companies faced a 70 percent rise in cyber attacks over the past year. There are also incidents like the healthcare data breach that caused cash flow problems for 94% of hospitals. In this kind of environment, it’s easy to see why cybersecurity workers are in high demand, and why workforce and education advocates should act now to create more career pathways into this field.  

Q. Is it true that even the agricultural industry needs tech workers?

For sure! There is a whole field of precision agriculture specialists working on different aspects of technology. At North Carolina State University, they’re developing new sensor technology to detect diseases in tomato crops. Companies like John Deere now employ more software engineers than mechanical engineers, because equipment like tractors and harvesters now includes sophisticated on-board computers. 

And getting down to the small business level, farmers themselves have moved assertively to gain the “right to repair” their own high-tech farm equipment. This issue is a widespread challenge in the industry, and numerous states have pending legislation on the topic. It points to the keen interest that local farmers have in being able to tinker with technology themselves, without waiting for a far-away manufacturer to come on site.   

Q. How can workforce leaders find out which technology skills are most in demand?

There isn’t one single magic list of in-demand skills – and I’d be very skeptical of anyone who tells you there is. Instead, workforce leaders should follow the tried-and-true approach of connecting with employers and industry associations in their local communities to get direct input on the skills they need.  I know it doesn’t sound sexy, but it’s really the best way to approach this challenge.

In fact, following longstanding practices in workforce development is just generally the right approach to creating effective on-ramps to tech jobs. Leaders should design training programs that are informed by local employers’ needs, offer a combination of foundational and technical skills, result in industry-recognized credentials, include supportive services, and are accessible to workers of all backgrounds.  

Q. What’s tricky about technology jobs and workforce policy right now?

I don’t want to gloss over the tough stuff. The advent of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools has dramatically reshaped the hiring market for entry-level software developers. If an intermediate-level software engineer can rely on an AI tool to do certain basic tasks, do they really need a junior colleague? Given this shift, many bootcamps and training programs have closed down or substantially reconfigured their operations. 

But those are just one type of tech jobs! It’s important not to over-focus on coding or software development as the only way into the tech field. To that end, I’d encourage policymakers and advocates to start asking questions of their non-tech industry employers in their communities. What kinds of tech jobs is YOUR company hiring for, and how can we make sure that our education and workforce programs are preparing people effectively for those jobs?  

The other tricky thing right now is that there just isn’t the same kind of consensus about credentials that you see in an older industry like healthcare or manufacturing. There are a dizzying array of tech-related credentials out there, including vendor-specific credentials, third-party certifications, and more traditional higher ed degrees and certificates.  

But it’s less clear that hiring managers are actually paying attention to many of these credentials. Here again, I’d emphasize going straight to the source: Ask your local employers what credentials they value. (And if you’re a policymaker wanting to set guardrails around credential quality, you should definitely check out NSC’s wealth of resources on this topic.) 

Q. There’s a lot going on in the world right now. Why is this a topic that policymakers should focus on?

Regardless of what’s going on in the wider world, pretty much everyone still needs to get up in the morning and go to work. If you want to make sure that people in your community can get good jobs to support themselves and their families, you should be thinking about creating pathways into tech jobs. They’re often some of the best-paying jobs in our economy, and they aren’t just located in tech companies. If nothing else, I hope I’ve convinced you of that!  

The post Today’s tech jobs are hiding in plain sight – and they’re not where you think appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

• Originally from Long Island, NY, Lutnick is the son of two teachers. 

• He has served as CEO of the Wall Street investment firm Cantor Fitzgerald since 1991. 

• Prior to becoming Secertary, Lutnick co-chaired the Trump administration’s transition process after the president’s reelection and holds over 40 patents through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 

Innovation and Semiconductor Manufacturing:

Secretary Lutnick was asked several times to reflect on the importance and impact of the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act. He called the initial investment  an “excellent downpayment” toward making the U.S. a leader in semiconductor manufacturing and creating good jobs. His testimony included acknowledgment of Commerce’s role in implementation, stopping short of commitment to furthering investments appropriated under the bill. He instead stated he would “work to ensure Congress receives the benefit of the bargain on the promise.”  When asked if he felt it was important for CHIPS to continue to operate, he focused on the importance of studying return on investments (ROI) from existing expenditures. When asked about continuing support for tech hubs, particularly in regions focused on biotechnology like the Southeast, Mr. Lutnick committed to visiting existing sites and evaluating expansion opportunities. 

Future of BEAD: 

Mr. Lutnick’s response to questions about Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding acknowledged the U.S. “need[s] to be leaders in 5G & 6G and bring the most effective and affordable broadband access to homes.” The nominee also acknowledged the current pause in federal funding and impacts on implementation. In doing so, he leveled a recent talking point offered by opponents to the program, claiming no households have yet received broadband under BEAD. This obscures the process as set out in the bipartisan legislation that requires states to identify broadband needs and seek administration approval before beginning projects. In fact, states that have received approval of these plans from the last administration have been instructed to await another review by this administration before launching work.  

Equity and Access in Workforce Development Programs and in cross agency coordination Notably Absent:

Much of the hearing focused on economic growth, with little discussion on ensuring equitable opportunities for underserved communities. The Department of Commerce, like all agencies, is currently subject to executive actions targeting “DEI” initiatives.

Nominee Highlights Innovation as a Driver for Economic Growth:

Secretary Lutnick outlined his vision for investing in emerging technologies and modernizing workforce training to keep pace with industry demands. He also highlighted the importance of bringing back domestic manufacturing to the U.S. For example, after Senator Gary Peters’ (D-MI) raised concerns about the impact of tariffs on the automotive manufacturing industry, the Secretary said, “it is vital for America that we bring semiconductor manufacturing to the United States of America. We need domestic manufacturing. CHIPS was an excellent down payment to begin that process.” 

Confirmation and Next Steps for Skills Advocates:

Secretary Lutnick was confirmed as Secretary of Commerce on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in a largely bipartisan vote. While he avoided directly commenting on the federal hiring freeze mandate, his role at the Commerce Department will have significant implications for workforce and economic policies moving forward. 

Join us at the Skills Summit in May to continue the conversation and champion critical workforce funding! 

The post Four Things Skills Advocates Should Know about the New Secretary of Commerce, Howard W. Lutnick  appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

• Former U.S. Representative for Oregon’s 5th Congressional District and ex-mayor Happy Valley, Oregon. 

• Chavez-Deremer is considered to be union friendly as she was one of the only Republican co-sponsors of the PRO Act, a bill that bolstered union organizing and collective bargaining, during her time in Congress. 

•  Chavez-DeRemer’s confirmation may face challenges from both parties.  Some Republicans are wary of her ties to organized labor, while some Democrats may oppose her in response to the Trump administration’s actions, including freezing congressionally approved funding, shuttering agencies, and arbitrarily firing government employees. 

Where does Chavez-DeRemer stand on the Trump Administration funding freezes? 

The Trump Administration has taken several actions in its first month, including pausing funding for federal programs and projects and eliminating thousands of federal workers. 

Chavez-DeRemer did not comment on the potential benefits or consequences of these funding freezes but stated that she would adhere to federal laws and the Constitution. 

The funding freeze has already disrupted programs administered by the Department of Labor, leaving training providers nationwide uncertain about their ability to meet payroll as federal funding remains stalled.  The House passed budget plan could cut up to $330 billion from agencies overseen by the House Education and Workforce Committee, as we covered in a previous blog.  These cuts, along with staff reductions, could delay critical workforce program support. 

What are her views on apprenticeships? 

During the hearing Chavez-DeRemer expressed strong support for Registered Apprenticeships, stating, “not everybody is going to get that four-year degree. We have to pay attention, that they have the skills that they need, that they can connect right to the business owners in their communities.”  She further underscored her commitment to collaborating with rural community and technical colleges to strengthen workforce training, enabling residents to remain in their communities. 

Chavez-DeRemer’s support for Registered Apprenticeships and workforce training generally, aligns with our network’s vision to strengthen workforce policies so that more working people have access to a better life and local businesses see sustained growth. As with other areas where our network’s positions align, expanding work-based learning opportunities—such as Registered Apprenticeships—presents a key opportunity for our network to engage with the Secretary nominee and her team. 

Where does the Secretary Nominee stand on WIOA Reauthorization? 

Chavez-DeRemer highlighted her previous support for the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) reauthorization legislation from last Congress. She expressed hope that she will have the opportunity to work to implement the legislation in order to invest in our nation’s workforce.  

Relatedly, she also emphasized her commitment to supporting working families by expanding access to childcare, including onsite childcare options. Reliable and affordable childcare, along with transportation and other supportive services, are critical to ensuring individuals can successfully participate in training programs and remain in the workforce.  

While WIOA Reauthorization legislation has not yet been reintroduced in the current Congress, the Secretary nominee’s reference to it during the hearing may signal the President’s interest in advancing workforce legislation. 

What other policy topics did the Senate HELP Committee prioritize? 

The Senate HELP Committee covered a range of topics during the hearing, including union organizing and bargaining, enforcement of child labor laws, and the expansion of temporary visa limits. Workforce issues were among the many priorities raised by committee members.  

On most topics, Chavez-DeRemer did not provide detailed responses outlining specific plans or policies. While this is not unusual for nominees, the Department of Labor plays a central role in administering programs critical to our network. Additionally, he anticipated Executive Order exploring a reorganization of the Department of Education could lead to workforce-related programs being transferred to the Department of Labor. If this occurs, Chavez-DeRemer’s role, if confirmed, would expand significantly. Given these potential changes, it is critical for the Secretary of Labor to have a clear vision for overseeing both existing workforce programs and those that may eventually fall under the department’s jurisdiction. 

NSC will continue to engage with Chavez-DeRemer throughout the confirmation process and, if confirmed, in her role as Secretary of Labor.  

With public support for workforce policies remaining high, NSC will continue to advocate for robust federal investment in skills training to support working people and businesses. Join us at the Skills Summit in May to continue the conversation and champion workforce funding. 

The post Four Things to Know about Secretary of Labor Nominee Lori Chavez-DeRemer appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

Unfortunately, today’s immigration policies aren’t keeping up with our evolving economy or with the realities of most working people and small and mid-sized local businesses—the focus of NSC’s mission. These outdated policies create workforce gaps and push millions of immigrants into uncertainty. Over time, they weaken our economy by limiting opportunities for both businesses and workers. 

As policymakers at the federal and state levels debate the future of immigration, it will remain critical to pursue smart reforms that strengthen our workforce, support businesses and economic growth, and uphold our nation’s values.  

Here is what National Skills Coalition believes—and what we will do. 

Immigrants Power Our Economy 

Immigrants make up 19% of the U.S. workforce, meaning nearly one in five working people in our economy is an immigrant. They are the backbone of critical industries like healthcare (18.6%), construction (13.7%), agriculture (12.7%), and technology (20%), among others.  

Labor shortages persist across these sectors because of low job quality, limited access to training, caregiving responsibilities, retirement trends, demographic shifts, and other barriers. Wage stagnation and concerns about automation further discourage workforce participation in certain industries. With fewer contributions from immigrants, businesses will continue to struggle to find skilled workers, and communities will lose essential services. 

Consider the direct care workforce, which is larger than other single occupation in the country and where immigrants comprise one-third of home care workers, an essential workforce that supports a rapidly growing population of older people to live independently in their homes. The direct care sector alone is expected to have 8.9 million job openings in the next decade. Without enough trained and well-supported workers to meet this demand, many families — frankly, most families — will struggle to find care for parents and family members with disabilities.  

Beyond direct employment, immigrants play a vital role in entrepreneurship. Approximately 18% of employer businesses in the U.S. are immigrant-owned, creating jobs, and driving innovation. Research also shows that Immigrant households contribute $2.1 trillion in income annually, with over $382 billion in federal taxes and $196 billion in state and local taxes—a direct investment in the public infrastructure we all rely on. Without immigrants, this economic fuel could begin dry up.  

The High Cost of Harsh Immigration Policies 

Despite their undeniable contributions, immigrants are increasingly targeted by policies that spread fear and division. Deportations of undocumented people are devastating families, worsening labor shortages, and disrupting local economies. Hyperbolic, inflammatory rhetoric often fuels these actions.  

History has also shown that harsh immigration policies hurt everyone. As UnidosUS recently documented, the recent and proposed raids could have severe economic consequences, including job losses, increased inflation, a reduced Gross Domestic Product, and added government expenses funded by taxpayer dollars.  

In Alabama and Georgia, for example, anti-immigrant laws led to a mass exodus of workers, leaving crops to rot in the fields and businesses scrambling for employees. In agriculture, where undocumented workers hold 22% of all jobs , deportations could lead to higher food prices due to a diminished labor force. Similarly, in construction—where undocumented workers fill 15% of all jobs —fewer working people would mean slower homebuilding and push housing costs higher at a time when affordable housing is already scarce. In direct care, unstaffed jobs could leave older people and people with disabilities have no care, which is catastrophic. 

The chilling effect of these policies extends beyond the workplace. In 2023, one in seven adults in immigrant families avoided safety net programs because they feared jeopardizing their legal status. This unnecessary fear prevents families from obtaining healthcare, education, and workforce training – the very tools that help people succeed and contribute to the economy. 

Immigration Reform That Works for All Americans 

 Punitive policies create unnecessary harm and ultimately draw attention from what our country truly needs at this stage: practical, common-sense solutions that recognize immigrants’ essential role in our workforce and communities. National Skills Coalition supports the following policies to ensure a stable, skilled workforce while upholding the dignity of all individuals: 

1. A Pathway to Citizenship for Undocumented Workers 

Providing a path to legal status and eventual citizenship for undocumented immigrants would stabilize our workforce, keep families together, and allow working people to fully participate in the economy. Policies like the American Dream and Promise Act aims to provide permanent protections to people who arrived in the U.S. as children, known as “Dreamers,” and to those granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) due to unsafe conditions in their home countries.  

2. Investments in Workforce Training and Career Pathways 

Immigrants, like all working people, need opportunities to upskill and advance their careers. That’s why we advocate for federal investments in skills training, career pathways, and English language programs through major legislation like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and the Higher Education Act. These programs help immigrant workers fill in-demand jobs while boosting overall economic productivity. 

3. Inclusion of Immigrants in Workforce and Economic Investments 

Federal workforce initiatives, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, should explicitly recognize the critical role of immigrants in building and maintaining our nation’s infrastructure. Immigration-inclusive workforce policies ensure that federal and state investments reach workers who are already essential to the economy. 

4. Protection for Immigrant Workers in the Event of Policy Changes 

The Supreme Court could rule against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, which allows certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the country as children to work legally. Policymakers could also attempt to reinstate the “public charge rule,” which penalizes immigrants seeking permanent residency if they are deemed likely to rely on public benefits. If these threats materialize, Congress must act immediately. DACA recipients and TPS holders need permanent solutions—not temporary protections subject to political shifts. Additionally, immigrants must have continued access to education and workforce training programs without fear of legal repercussions. 

Why Policymakers Must Act Now 

With millions leaving the labor force due to retirement, shifting demographics, and economic shifts, industries nationwide face critical labor shortages. Ignoring the contributions of immigrants—who already fill essential jobs—will only deepen these shortages and slow economic growth.  

Moreover, failing to recognize their role harms those who have built our economy and culture, many with deep roots in our communities. Instead of divisive policies that push people into the shadows, we need bipartisan workforce reforms that strengthen our economy, support working people (including immigrants), and ensure America remains a global leader. Smart policies can unlock opportunities, address labor gaps, and help businesses thrive. 

At National Skills Coalition, we understand immigration is complex, but we have a long history of supporting policies that uplift immigrant working people. For years, through policy analysis and education, we’ve produced research, published articles, and hosted discussions at major events, including a dedicated session at our upcoming Skills Summit this May in Washington, DC. We’ve shared recommendations with policymakers across the aisle, emphasizing that immigration is a core workforce issue requiring dedicated attention and balanced solutions.  

In May, we will release a detailed issue brief underscoring these ideas to further reach our national audiences and shape the public conversation. We will also continue to provide updates on key immigration policies, workforce trends, and best practices for supporting immigrant workers.  

Our nation’s history proves immigration is not a burden—it is a strength. By embracing policies that invest in immigrants’ contributions, we can build a more prosperous future for all Americans.  

The post Building a Stronger Workforce Means Embracing Immigrant Contributions appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

• Linda McMahon served as Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) during the first Trump administration. In this role, she focused on supporting small businesses, disaster relief efforts, and job creation. She later campaigned for President Trump. 

• She is the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut in 2010 and 2012. 

•  Her education experience includes nearly a year on the Connecticut State Board of Education and serving as a trustee at Sacred Heart University. 

What is her stance on defunding or dismantling the Department of Education?  

The Trump administration has signaled support for dismantling the Department of Education and could issue an Executive Order to this effect as soon as next week. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has also proposed eliminating several federal programs, and a recent Executive Order has halted funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. 

During her confirmation hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, McMahon stated that she believes the administration’s position involves restructuring rather than outright eliminating education funding. She suggested that states and localities would continue to receive federal funds appropriated by Congress, though certain programs, such as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), might be reassigned to other agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The recently confirmed Secretary of HHS, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has also expressed support for reducing the scope of federal education programs.  

However, DOGE proposals to eliminate various federal programs suggest that the administration’s broader approach could go further than McMahon indicated. In addition to potential funding cuts, DOGE has reportedly interfered with the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), the primary federal entity responsible for collecting and analyzing education data. Efforts to halt funding for contractors engaged in education data analysis could severely impact the ability to track student outcomes, assess program effectiveness, and ensure evidence-based policy decisions. Limiting or restructuring IES could also jeopardize student data privacy, as shifting oversight may weaken protections against misuse or unauthorized access to sensitive information. 

McMahon stated that she would not engage in unlawful activities such as halting Congressionally appropriated funds. However, the administration’s Executive Orders indicate a broader policy goal of significantly reducing the federal role in education funding.  

What is Linda McMahon’s position on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives? 

In her testimony, McMahon expressed support for federally funded schools recognizing Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month. However, she did not clarify whether she supports federal funding for clubs or organizations centered around racial, ethnic, or religious identities. 

Likewise, it remains uncertain whether McMahon would support continued federal funding for workforce programs that prioritize specific communities. Many workforce development programs include DEI-related components, such as those supporting women in the trades, broadband access for historically marginalized communities, Integrated Education and Training (IET) programs for English language learners, and workforce reentry initiatives for formerly incarcerated individuals and opportunity youth. Research and testimonials from workforce training participants emphasize the importance of peer support and community-based learning environments for program completion and career success. 

What are her views on workforce development? 

McMahon reiterated her support for expanding Pell Grants to short-term, high-quality credential programs. She also emphasized the importance of apprenticeships, internships, and work-based learning as pathways into the labor market. Additionally, she advocated for increased awareness of skills-based trades among youth prior to graduation. 

However, she did not outline specific policy proposals to achieve these goals, nor did she address how workforce development initiatives would be affected if the Department of Education underwent significant restructuring or funding reductions. Career and Technical Education and Adult Education groups have expressed concerns that shifting funding streams from the Department of Education to the Department of Labor could weaken the programs’ educational components, reduce funding stability, and create administrative burdens for states that have built systems around existing funding structures. 

What other policy topics did the Senate HELP Committee prioritize? 

The Senate HELP Committee primarily focused on antisemitism on college campuses and transgender athletes in collegiate sports. The committee barely discussed workforce development topics, including industry partnerships, support for working families, and small business workforce initiatives. 

 With public support for workforce and education policies remaining strong, NSC continues to advocate for robust federal investment in skills training as a cornerstone of economic growth and opportunity. Join us at the Skills Summit in May to continue the conversation and to advocate for workforce funding.

The post Four Things to Know About Secretary of Education Nominee Linda McMahon appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

While we are calling on you to take action on the federal level to protect workforce funding, National Skills Coalition will continue to support our network partners in advancing skills policies and defending hard-won policy gains achieved at the state level. This work is vital to increasing economic prosperity as states can be both models of opportunity – advancing policy for the federal government to emulate– and demonstrations of how flexibility within federal policy can make a difference in people’s lives, for better or for worse.  

Now, more than ever, we need you in the fight for skills and good jobs in the states.   

How NSC Works with State Partners 

As background, National Skills Coalition works with dozens of different state partners – whether through our 20-state Skills State Policy and Advocacy Network (SkillSPAN), Business Leaders United Network, Infrastructure Equity Policy Project, Expanding College & Career Possibilities Policy Action Initiative, New Mexico Worker Equity Initiative, or various time-limited technical assistance projects.  

We support these network partners in many ways, including with: 

• state-level policy briefs, recommendations, playbooks, toolkits and research  

• customized staff support and thought partnership 

• cross-state peer learning convenings 

• coalition-building resources and/or  

• amplification of our state partners’ work on NSC communications channels.   

Working with dozens of state partners in this many ways means that the strategies that we co-create must be tailored to each state’s particular context and unique policy and political landscape. Sometimes the strategy is focused on educating state legislators.  Other times, it’s more critical to inform governor’s offices and state agency leadership about how executive orders, agency rules, and funding decisions will affect workers and businesses.  

Meeting the Moment: Why State Advocacy Matters Now  

As a new administration and Congress takes the helm in Washington, D.C., state constituents need to inform their policymakers of the implications of federal policy changes and proposals for their states. NSC is supporting advocates being called upon to pull double- or triple-duty during these times: to push for or defend beneficial workforce policies at the state level while reminding state leaders (where needed) to defend the federal funds Congress has already allocated to the state that could support the workforce. 

For instance, NSC outlined how state policymakers needed to invest in training and enact other policies to avoid further worker shortages and fully realize the millions of jobs that will be created by the Inflation Reduction Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the CHIPS and Science Act. State advocates answered the call and built diverse coalitions to push for policies needed to increase training and supports for people to access infrastructure and clean energy jobs.  

Now, in light of recent presidential actions, some state advocates must also insist that their state’s leaders – their governors, attorneys general, and their Congressional delegation – stand up to defend the funds previously appropriated by Congress under these laws. In doing so, they may need to illustrate through storytelling and/or through fact sharing the awesome opportunity to create and retain jobs that the state will be missing by not defending these allocated funds. 

NSC will be here to help strategize with each of our state partners as they play all these roles. We will do this by continuing to convene, provide resources, and thought partnership. We are grateful for the partnership of each of our current and previous state partners.  

Join Us 

For the partners we have not worked with yet in the fight for skills and good jobs in the states, we invite you to: 

• continue to follow and use our state-level recommendations and resources,  

• to connect with your state’s SkillSPAN coalition, network or work group if there is one in your state;  

• to get involved with Business Leaders United if you are a private employer; and to  

• Register for this year’s Skills Summit! This year, for the first time ever we will reinforce the crucial connection between federal and state-level policy changes, including welcoming state policymakers. 

Whatever your point of entry, we invite you to get or stay active on the state level to advance or defend policies and funding that help more workers live better lives. The fight in and from the states is too important for you not to be.    

The post The Fight for Skills and Good Jobs Starts in the States appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

At National Skills Coalition, our federal advocacy priorities remain clear: sustained, bold advocacy in the reconciliation and appropriation processes. With tumultuous and changing activity in DC, these two funding mechanisms offer a set of predictable opportunities for skills advocates to influence workforce investments.  

Why Advocacy Matters Now 

In today’s highly partisan environment, workforce and skills offer a way to bridge these divides. The American public is also aligned with our priorities: 

• 82% of voters support increasing government funding for skills training. 

• Nearly 70% of voters view limited access to skills training as a significant challenge facing workers. 

The advocacy we undertake now will remain relevant throughout 2025. By staying focused and united, we can ensure Congress prioritizes the workforce needs of workers in America: effective and efficient investment and good policies to prepare more workers for jobs that businesses are hiring today.  

Understanding Reconciliation 

• What is it? Reconciliation is a legislative process that allows Congress to pass budget-related bills with a simple majority, bypassing the usual 60-vote threshold in the Senate. However, the process comes with trade-offs: The Byrd Rule prevents Congress from adding policies that don’t have a direct budgetary impact. If Republicans stay unified, they could pass two reconciliation bills – one tied to the 2025 Budget Resolution and another for 2026. 

• Key Date to Watch: Spring-Summer. Republicans have indicated they want to pass their reconciliation package by early spring, but the timeline remains uncertain. The next few months will be critical in determining whether they meet their goal. 

• Key Priorities: A list of programs most at risk of cuts leaked earlier this year and signaled an intent to make significant cuts to federal programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid—programs that impact workers’ and students’ ability to advance skills. While we must work to defend those programs, expanding Pell Grants to high-quality short-term programs—an issue National Skills Coalition and our network have championed for over a decade—are being discussed as a priority by Republicans in both chambers, barring Byrd Rule challenges. 

• Potential Cuts: Federal education and safety net programs are at risk for dramatic reductions. These cuts could severely impact students and workers across the country. These cuts would also undermine strong workforce programs, including any expansion of Pell Grants. Students and workers could lose access to essential supports like child care and transportation, making it harder to benefit from workforce training. Last year, we shared real-life testimonies and policy recommendations on what students in these programs want. As one student put it:  

“Simply put, people cannot worry about getting their higher education if their basic needs are not met. They’re worrying about putting food on their table, and how they’re going to pay rent, and how they’re going to pay for child care and things of that nature. So, if there are resources that will consistently help them meet their needs during their time at the college, whatever time it takes for them to get their degree or certification, that would definitely help.” 

Congressional Republicans are also considering rolling back key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, threatening critical investments in clean energy and infrastructure.  These cuts could stall projects that are already underway, reduce the number of jobs created, and undermine workforce training programs that help workers access infrastructure and energy careers. Research commissioned by NSC indicated that infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing investments enacted during the last administration could create nearly 3 million jobs annually. Rescinding funds and tax incentives would put job growth at risk and limit opportunities for workers.

Understanding Appropriations 

Key Dates to Watch:  

• 2025 spending – Spring: On March 14, the current federal funding bill expires. Congress could pass either a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) or extend funding through the end of the fiscal year (September 30, 2025) at that point – meaning current cuts to SNAP benefits and other programs would be ongoing. President Trump has also tasked Republicans with extending or eliminating the Debt Limit as part of appropriations. Congress would need to pass something before early Summer. The timeline is a bit malleable based on how successful the administration is at implementing “extraordinary measures” that help elongate the applicability of the current limits.  

•  2026 spending – Fall: Once Congress advances work on 2025, it will turn to 2026 funding. Congress must act by the September 30th deadline, either through negotiated bills or in the form of another continuing resolution (CR). With ongoing and overlapping timelines on reconciliation, both sides of the aisle will leverage the funding conversations to offset losses in reconciliation.  

• Opportunity for Bipartisan Solutions: Given margins in both chambers, both Republican and Democrat support will be necessary to pass these two appropriations packages. This means that in addition to working with Republican champions, we will have the opportunity to equip Democrat skills champions with what they need to elevate the needs of our workforce as a bipartisan issue. This effort can elevate skills as having support across Congress and, therefore, make it easier to protect and highlight.  

• Workforce Funding at Risk: For the past two decades, Congress has consistently cut workforce appropriations. Our advocacy will focus on protecting existing workforce funding, defending programs like Youth WIOA funds which have faced elimination threats in recent years, and raising the profile of skills training among negotiators on both sides.  

• Unified and Ongoing Advocacy is Key: We must stand firm in defending funding for skills programs and initiatives and highlight the real-life impacts of funding cuts on workers and businesses. Members of our Business Leaders United network have consistently defended funding for skills training over the years, sharing how critical workforce investments are for the growth of our workforce. As one worker shared during one of our recent listening sessions with more than a dozen workers and students from six states, to ensure they can inform NSC’s policy recommendations, these programs can be life-changing: 

“[Participating in a job training program] is the most rewarding thing I’ve done for myself,” said Oklahoma City-born Denise, a worker who participated in a payroll training program nearly a decade ago. “I wake up in awe because it has changed my life so much.” 

Additional Legislative Developments 

• Expanding Pell Grants to high-quality programs is moving forward: On Feb. 4, 2025, the bipartisan JOBS Act—a bipartisan bill that would expand Pell Grant eligibility to high-quality, short-term education and training programs at community and technical colleges—was introduced in the Senate.  

• WIOA reauthorization efforts continue: With a focus on serving businesses and workers, the anticipated reintroduction of last year’s bipartisan, bicameral A Stronger Workforce Act is advancing. Both Chair Walberg (R-MI) and Ranking Member Scott (D-VA) are publicly championing the reintroduction of the bipartisan WIOA reauthorization from last year. 

How to Take Action 

• Contact Your Members of Congress: Contact your members of Congress to advocate for key workforce priorities and ensure they understand the real impact of these policies. Contact them here. 

• Attend the Skills Summit: Register today to join the conversation and advocate for workforce funding in May.  Register here. 

• Share Your Story: If your organization or community you represent is affected by existing or potential cuts, we encourage you to share your story with others. Submit your story here.

We can help shape federal policies that support America’s workers and businesses by staying focused and engaged. Over the next few months, National Skills Coalition will continue to lead in skills and workforce advocacy and share actions you can take to join our efforts. 

The post The Fight for Workforce Funding: Key 2025 Deadlines Every Advocate Should Know appeared first on National Skills Coalition.

The bottom line: Smart workforce policies invest first in the personnel to build relationships and provide high-quality programs, and only after that consider if there are remaining challenges that a jobs board can help to solve.

Q: First things first: What’s a jobs board?

A: It’s pretty much just a website that lists job openings. Often, it’s focused on a specific industry or geographic area – say, telecommunications jobs in Mississippi. And sometimes it includes ancillary information, such as short videos about people already working in that industry, links to community college or workforce training programs, and other information about the types of careers available.

Q: Why do people like the idea of a jobs board?

A: It seems really appealing, on the surface! The theory is that it will help new workers to find out about an industry, and after having read about it or watched videos online, they’ll apply for a job or enter a training program.

Sounds great, right? To many of us, the idea of googling for information seems plausible. We assume that workers looking for a career change — or to find their very first job — will search online.

But in practice, most people don’t choose a new career field by doing an online search. Instead, they rely on a trusted person to help them learn about career possibilities. Looking up information online comes much later in the process, once they are already considering a specific career path or training program.

Q: So, what does that mean for workforce leaders who are excited about building a jobs board?

A: Well, I always start with the why. Why do you want to build a jobs board, and what evidence do you have that it will help you accomplish your goals?

• If you want to get increased numbers of people excited about working in your target industry, a website by itself is unlikely to do that.
• If you want to reach new pools of untapped talent – demographic groups that haven’t traditionally worked in your target industry – a website by itself is unlikely to do that.
• If you want to get more workers enrolled in and graduating from training programs for your target industry, a website by itself is unlikely to do that.

In all of those cases, investing in high quality programs and relationships is more likely to yield the outcomes you’re looking for. Specifically, focusing on those trusted people that jobseekers are likely to turn to when they are at a decision point in their careers.

Q: Who are those trusted people?

A: Sometimes that is a friend or family member. Often, it’s what I call a “first responder for workforce” – a frontline professional whose job it is to help people navigate a career pathway.

For example, student advisors, guidance counselors, workforce center staff, adult educators, librarians – basically, people whose jobs have them interacting directly with students or jobseekers in an advisory capacity.

The benefits of relying on a trusted person are that you’re less likely to be scammed or misled by a supposed opportunity that just wastes your time and money. The downside is that no advisor is knowledgeable about every career, and advisors often have especially limited knowledge about newly emerging careers in fields such as clean energy, cybersecurity, or artificial intelligence.

Q: Can you say more about the trust factor?

A: Different communities in the U.S. have different experiences of being given career guidance, and some are much less positive than others. For example, in prior decades, students of color were sometimes “tracked” in middle or high school – with advisors steering them away from college and toward vocational training programs.

And there are unfortunately still some bad actors in the training field that exploit students’ lack of knowledge about higher education to sign them up for high-interest loans or encourage them to train for low-paying jobs that won’t enable them to pay back their student debt or support themselves. Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom wrote about this in her book Lower Ed.

If a student or worker has seen their friends or family get ripped off, or even just given irrelevant advice, they tend to be skeptical of online marketing and other impersonal information. If your best buddy from high school wanted to be an electrician, but the sales pitch he got meant that he ended up in debt without a credential or a job, you might be wary of any career-related sales pitches.

In contrast, one workforce program that I know of took a really innovative approach. It was a nonprofit in Chicago serving primarily low-income Latino immigrant families. When they began to advertise a new training program, they held family-style information sessions that encouraged young adults to bring their parents with them to ask questions and learn about the opportunity. It shifted the tone completely, because it brought parents in as supportive and knowledgeable allies in their 20-something child’s career journey, rather than excluding them.

Q: Should we invest in jobs boards at all?

A: Maybe! My advice is, if you’ve already done the fundamentals and you still have a budget left over, a jobs board can be a nice garnish. It does give you a place to steer people too – not necessarily even jobseekers themselves, but those first responders for workforce who might not know much about your specific industry.

But be aware that it’s a big, expensive challenge to promote and drive traffic to a new website. There is a whole science built up around how best to launch and advertise a new site, and most workforce agencies don’t have the budget to pay for that. So you run the risk of spending time and money creating a website that just doesn’t attract many visitors.

Plus, someone has to stay available for troubleshooting and keep the website up to date, and that can be pretty time-consuming and expensive too.

Q: What do you mean by the fundamentals?

A: Here in the United States, we have been doing adult education and workforce development in various forms for nearly 150 years, dating back to the settlement houses that helped new immigrants find work in the late 1800s.

By this point, we know some key elements that policymakers should prioritize. They include:

• Contextualized learning that allows people to learn both foundational and technical skills in a real-world context
• Industry-recognized, portable and stackable credentials
• Employer-informed training curricula that prepares people for in-demand jobs in their local communities
• Supportive services that ensure that people don’t have to drop out of training programs because of challenges with childcare, transportation, or emergency needs
• Transferrable skills that will be valuable in multiple occupations in case the jobseeker has to pivot
• High-quality instructors who have skills in andragogy (teaching adults) and industry expertise
• Meaningful connections to employment opportunities when training concludes

Q: So, to recap – policymakers should only invest in jobs boards after they’ve built a strong foundation of good programming and high-quality advisors?

A: The takeaway is clear: A well-maintained jobs board can be a helpful tool, but only after a strong foundation of high-quality training programs, career advising, and workforce relationships is in place. Otherwise, it’s just another expensive website that jobseekers may never find.

The post You’re Wrong About Jobs Boards. Relationships, Not Websites, Drive Hiring appeared first on National Skills Coalition.