Government Relations Workforce Development Working Group-
Description:
The Government Relations Committee consists of three working groups, each with a group leader and members that focus on SMRP’s three priorities, Workplace Safety, Workforce Development and Cybersecurity & Critical Infrastructure. The working groups are led by SMRP Government Relations staff. Each Working Group has a Chair who reports to the Government Relations Committee Chair.
Workforce Development
The Government Relations Committee was formed to ensure outreach and relationship building with key policymakers on Capitol Hill and in the regulatory agencies to discuss SMRP’s public policy priorities. The Working Groups also help influence policy by positioning SMRP as a thought leader in government.
Developing a skilled workforce is critical to driving the maintenance, reliability and physical asset management profession forward. As it stands, there are neither enough funds provided to high schools, trade schools and colleges to produce the resources to replace an aging workforce, nor enough incentives to assist companies and local governments with collaborative training (apprenticeship) of future workforce. SMRP recommends the United States government take an assessment of the workforce, support strategies for the development of a skilled workforce, establish grant programs and incentives to encourage additional training, and serve as a clearinghouse for relevant information. The Workforce Development Working Group was able to accomplish these goals by taking an active role in securing the passage of the Perkins Career and Technical Education Program. This group will continue to serve as a leader within SMRP for providing resources and information to members on Perkins.
The SMRP Government Relations team is currently looking for volunteers to join the Workforce Development Working Group Committee.
If you are interested in joining the Workforce Development Working Group and making a substantive impact in the realm of policy, please take a look at the questions below:
- Are you a subject matter on developing your company’s workforce?
- Have you addressed issues pertaining to the skills gap and workforce development within your company?
- Does your company utilize Perkins Federal Grants for Career and Technical Education programs?
- Does your company offer employees opportunities for technical education improvement?
- Have you had previous experience advocating on behalf of your company in Washington, D.C.?