Apprenticeship Budget Will Triple Under Iowa Governor’s New Proposal
When Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad (R) delivered his “Condition of the State” address, he announced a legislative agenda focused on improving economic development and providing Iowans access to high-paying jobs in high-demand industries. As part of this legislative agenda, the governor’s proposed budget would triple funding to apprenticeship programs.
The Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa, which represents 450 merit shop construction and industry-related firms, voiced their support for Gov. Branstad’s initiative:
“ABC of Iowa applauds Gov. Branstad’s initiative to more than triple apprenticeship training funds,” said ABC of Iowa President and CEO Greg Spenner. “Iowa’s construction industry faces a significant shortage of skilled workers and this proposal by Gov. Branstad is a major step forward in providing training for high-wage jobs and helping Iowa’s contractors find and employ skilled tradespersons.”
Here at WF_C, we’ve reported on the construction industry’s concerns about skill shortages and the projections for a rapid expansion of construction employment. State governments who are committed to improving access to construction craft training and apprenticeship programs will definitely benefit most from these opportunities for economic growth.
Contributor since July 2013
Mike is the Director of Workforce Policy at Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc.
