Jobs, Skills and Training

America is experiencing fundamental long-term structural economic changes that require meaningful policy changes to restore the nation’s competitiveness. In the course of this change, good jobs are emerging. However, many of our workplace rules, educational standards, and employment norms are rooted in the 20th century. We need to come together—all of us from industry and education to government and labor—to finally make the leap to the new millennium. A competitive and trained American workforce is of national interest.

• At all levels of education, students should have a far better understanding of the skills and basic competencies needed by employers as well as the career tracks with the potential for long-term gainful employment.
• Nobody should be left behind. More experienced workers should have access to job skills training (such as technology and soft skills training) and other tools that allow them to grow with changes in the marketplace.
• Foreign-born workers play a vital role in the U.S. economy, contributing to the global competitiveness of American companies and ultimately promoting the welfare of American communities and workers.
• Federally funded programs and tax incentives should be more closely aligned with privately funded education, training, and development programs that result in in-demand skill development.

The HR Policy Association works with employers and policymakers to restore American competitiveness with strong jobs and a workforce with the tools to succeed in the modern economy.

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