In conjunction with the debate going on currently on Capital Hill, John Engler, president of the National Association of Manufacturers, issued a call for renewed investment in homegrown talent. Traveling on the West Coast of the U.S. last week he spoke of the need for talented workers.
"Manufacturers across the country are facing labor shortages despite the availability of good, high-paying manufacturing jobs," Engler continued. "These jobs are going unfilled due to a lack of employees with the qualifications needed in modern manufacturing. If the U.S. wants to continue being a leader in manufacturing -- and we do -- then we must ensure that every student has the knowledge and skills necessary for a high tech workforce."
Engler's call to action coincides with Congressional activities this week on education and innovation, including the America Competes Act (S. 761), and the 10,000 Teachers, 10 Million Minds Science and Math Scholarship Act (H.R. 362). Both bills are important first steps toward improving math and science education and would help boost interest in science, technology, engineering and math fields (STEM).
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