U.S. Economy
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America’s shortage of highly-skilled workers is well known, but less attention has been focused on “middle-skill jobs,” such as plumbers, electricians, health care workers, legal assistants, machinists, and police officers. Such jobs require significant education and training, but not necessarily a four-year college degree. They make up roughly half of all employment today, and demand for middle-skill workers is expected to continue despite the economic downturn.
On February 26, the Center on Children and Families at Brookings released a policy brief analyzing the demand for these jobs and their potential for helping disadvantaged workers move up the income ladder. Speakers examined ways to improve education and training programs to ensure the demand for skilled workers is met. John Engler, president of the National Association of Manufacturers and governor of Michigan from 1991-2003, gave an address.
Agenda
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February 26
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Welcome & Introduction
EAEllen Alberding President, The Joyce Foundation -
Keynote Speaker
GJEGov. John Engler President, National Association of Manufacturers -
Overview
Harry J. Holzer Nonresident Senior Fellow - Economic Studies, Center for Economic Security and Opportunity -
Panel 1: Preparing Workers for Middle-Skill Jobs
MJPModerator: Jennifer Phillips Senior Program Officer, The Joyce FoundationRBRon Bullock President, Bison Gear
Robert I. Lerman Institute Fellow - Urban InstituteIMIsrael Mendoza Director, Adult Literacy and Basic Skills Programs, Washington State Board for Community and Technical CollegesPSPatricia Schramm Executive Director, Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin -
Panel 2: Needed Policy Reforms
MPOModerator: Paul Osterman Professor: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyKEKaren Elzey Vice President and Executive Director, U.S. Chamber of CommerceGFGerri Fiala Staff Director, Senate Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace SafetyAVAndy VanKleunen Exeutive Director, The Workforce Alliance
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