U.S. SENATE
The U.S. economy hit a milestone in March. For the first time since record keeping began in 2000, there were more job openings than job seekers. As of August, there were a record 7.1 million job openings, highlighting one of the biggest challenges we face: closing the skills gap and developing a workforce that can meet the demands of a growing economy.
As chairman of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee, I have supported job training programs that provide students the skills and training they need for the jobs available today and in the years to come. This year’s Department of Labor funding bill, which President Trump recently signed into law, provided funding for the Job Corps program which has, for decades, helped prepare young Americans for long-term success in the job market.
Job Corps is a national training and education program aimed at addressing the multiple barriers to employment faced by disadvantaged young people entering the labor force. The educational, career, and support services offered by Job Corps help students obtain and hold gainful employment, pursue further education or training, or satisfy entrance requirements for careers in the Armed Forces.