The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council and NAM support Senate’s response to address skills gapThe Manufacturing Skill Standards Council and NAM support Senate’s response to address skills gap
Congress was finally able to accomplish something this summer when both the House and the Senate passed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) by an overwhelming 415-6 and 95-3 vote respectively. The passage of this bill last month pleased many of the manufacturing trade associations.
July 23, 2014
According to the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC), an industry-led training, assessment and certification system for the nation's front-line production and material handling workers, the WIOA makes significant changes to the nation's workforce development system. Some of the points relevant to MSSC's mission include:
1. WIOA provides the definition of a 'recognized post-secondary credential' as "a credential consisting of an industry-recognized certificate or certification, a certificate of completion of an apprenticeship, a license recognized by the state involved or Federal Government, or an associate or baccalaureate degree." With this definition, WIOA gives priority consideration to training that leads to industry-recognized credentials.
2. WIOA requires that states develop a single comprehensive state plan to improve access to activities leading to a recognized post-secondary credential (including a credential that is an industry-recognized certificate or certification, portable, and stackable). This requirement is supportive of the NAM-endorsed skill certification system of stackable, industry-recognized, nationally portable certifications, of which MSSC is a founding partner.
3. WIOA emphasizes the creation of career pathway systems through improved integration and coordination of education and training services. MSSC is pleased to see that WIOA highlights what the organization says it has always believed: the use of a common language - such as those provided by MSSC national, industry-defined skill standards - between industry and education will offer a more efficient and cost-effective way of preparing individuals with the higher skills needed by industry.
4. WIOA expands opportunities for local or national community-based organization or intermediary, community college, or other training provider to participate in federal workforce programs by providing the ability to have training services funded through contractual arrangements.
5. The restoration of the 15% discretionary funds for governors will now give state agencies and state Workforce Investment Boards the flexibility to fuel job creation with state-led job training initiatives. In the past, several states have used these funds to enhance the use of MSSC training and certification in the state.
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) VP of Human Resources Policy Joe Trauger issued this statement after passage of the WIOA: "Manufacturers commend Senate lawmakers for passing a measure that over time will make significant strides in closing the skills gap. This legislation comes at a critical time when more than 80% of manufacturers report a moderate or serious shortage of qualified applicants for skilled and highly skilled production positions. By prioritizing federal skills training resources toward portable, certified skills, the reforms included in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act will help provide manufacturers with the skilled workforce they need to compete successfully in the global environment. It also gives workers the confidence that the skills they are acquiring will be in demand by employers. Manufacturers are hopeful that the House will act swiftly to send this important legislation to the President for his signature."
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