Mrvan Holds Workforce Roundtable
Gary, IN – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01) and Rep. Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) held a Workforce Roundtable through their roles with the New Democrat Coalition with Northwest Indiana representatives of organized labor, higher education institutions, and local nonprofit organizations to discuss the federal government’s role in strengthening the workforce through education and training initiatives.
The roundtable included representatives from the Center of Workforce Innovations, the Construction Advancement Foundation, Goodwill Industries of Michiana, IBEW Union 6th District, the Indiana Plan, Ironworkers Local Union 395, Ivy Tech Community College, the Northwest Indiana Building Constructions Trade Council, Operating Engineers Local Union 150, United Steelworkers Local Unions 1010 and 1014, and United Way Northwest Indiana.
Congressman Mrvan stated, “Thank you to Rep. Budzinski, all of our colleagues in the New Democrat Coalition, and all of the participants today for this discussion on how we can continue to collaborate together to create more work and wealth in Northwest Indiana and communities across our country. Northwest Indiana is a community of people who work hard to get ahead, and I am grateful that this conversation can focus on the invaluable contributions from labor unions and their apprenticeship programs, nonprofits with dedicated job training resources, and technical education programs offered at high schools and institutions of higher education. This region’s commitment to education and training sends a clear message that Northwest Indiana is not only open for business, but we have the skilled workforce to get the job done.”
Congresswoman Budzinski stated, “I was excited to join Congressman Mrvan for our seventh New Dems on the Road stop to talk about a workforce development agenda that meets the demands of the 21st century economy. As a trade unionist, I know that a traditional four-year degree is far from the only path to a successful career – in fact, programs like registered apprenticeships offer incredible opportunities for folks to learn in-demand skills and get connected with good-paying jobs. It was great to hear from union leaders, community colleges, and local nonprofits about the work they’re doing in Indiana to expand access to these job training programs, and I look forward to bringing the insights from this conversation back to Washington, DC.”
For additional information on the New Democrat Coalition workforce initiatives, click here.
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