A Skilled Workforce

A Skilled Workforce - A Nursing Student in front of a computer with an instructor.
An educated workforce is cited among the most important attributes a company looks for when it is considering where to expand or locate jobs.

A skilled workforce is key to growing jobs, improving family economic security and ensuring the fiscal health of our state.  

An educated workforce is among the most important attributes a company looks for when deciding where to expand or locate jobs. Yet, Rhode Island has a “middle skills” gap; we don't have enough workers who qualify for jobs that require more than a high school diploma and less than a four-year degree. These jobs pay well and are in fields like health care, construction, and marine trades, that can't be moved to other states or countries. Middle skill jobs are the largest part of the job market.

 

 

Rhode Island Workforce Alliance: The Economic Progress Institute coordinates the Alliance which is a partnership among business, labor, adult education and workforce training providers, philanthropic organizations and other community leaders dedicated to ensuring that our state has a dynamic and comprehensive workforce development system that meets the needs of employers and workers, especially those with low skills. The Alliance advocates for state investments and policies that would enhance the workforce training system in Rhode Island.
Our policy agenda includes legislation that is being promoted by the RI Workforce Alliance that would increase investments in a spectrum of workforce training programs.  We also support improved access to higher education for all Rhode Islander including immigrant students and working parents who need child care assistance during the time they are in school or a training program. 

Testimony in support of increasing state investments in workforce training
May 09, 2012 - The RI Workforce Alliance, a partnership among business, labor, workforce training providers, philanthropic organizations and upward mobility advocates who have come together to promote policies and investments for a skilled and productive workforce, testifies in support of a $2 million increase in state investments for workforce training.

Investing in Rhode Island's Workforce for 21st Century Jobs
March 15, 2012 -

A skilled workforce is key to Rhode Island's economic recovery and future competitiveness. Workers must have some level of post-secondary education or training to fill the middle-skill occupations that comprise the majority of Rhode Island's jobs. A vibrant workforce training system is responsive to employer needs and ensures that workers have opportunities to enhance their skills. 

Summary of 2012 Legislation Impacting the Workforce Development System
July 11, 2011 - A Summary of legislation that requires the Governor’s Workforce Board (GWB) to submit a biennial employment and training plan beginning March 15th of 2012.  The Plan must include a funding strategy necessary to achieve system priorities and serve the anticipated number of participants.  

Building a Skilled Workforce: Moving Forward
October 10, 2010 - An overview of the progress Rhode Island made to date in advancing the adult education system, strategic planning for a comprehensive workforce development system.

Prioritizing Approaches to Economic Development in New England: Skills, Infrastructure and Tax Incentives (A PERI Publication)
August 06, 2010 - Investments in our current and future workforce, and the infrastructure that businesses and communities rely on, generate greater returns than tax credits and giveaways.