Soon, I will introduce legislation to address one of the Commonwealth's most pressing workforce challenges.
 
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, Pennsylvania faces a shortage of more than 300,000 skilled trade workers by 2030. At the same time, young Pennsylvanians are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees and pathways that lead to good-paying, in-demand careers and allow them to build their lives, contribute to their communities, and support their families.
 
My legislation would create a workforce development partnership between the Building & Construction Trades, PA’s community colleges, and career and technical centers to offer students meaningful pathways into skilled trades and pre-apprenticeship programs. Together, we can prepare rising generations of Pennsylvanians for good-paying jobs in industries like construction, manufacturing, technology, and sustainable energy while responding to the workforce needs of our growing economy.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this timely legislation.