Publications – Skilled Workforce

Skilled Workforce

The State of Working Rhode Island 2015: Workers of Color
December 17, 2015 – This report, “The State of Working Rhode Island: Workers of Color”,
highlights the many challenges facing Rhode Island workers, showing the
many areas where workers of color fare less well than others. The
accompanying Policy Recommendations
document shows that there are policy solutions within our grasp that
can shift economic trends that have been holding Rhode Island families back.
Making Child Care Affordable for More Rhode Island Families
May 26, 2015 – Our latest issue brief about important policy changes that could help make child care affordable for more families in Rhode Island.
Policy Outcomes 2014
July 16, 2014 – This brief summary highlights several policy changes made in 2014 that will have an impact on the fiscal health of Rhode Island and its residents.
Testimony in Support of H7572, Adult Education
April 17, 2014 – We all know that a skilled workforce is vital to Rhode Island’s economic success. The Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (RIDE) estimates that with a $2 million investment, the adult education providers could open their doors to those standing on the threshold of opportunity.
Testimony in Support of H7564, Adult Education
April 17, 2014 – This bill would restore the availability of fee waiver for low income test takers. Removing financial obstacles for Rhode Islanders who are ready to obtain their GED is good public policy for the individual and his/her family, for our businesses and for our economy.
Work in Progress: Latinos in the RI Workforce
October 17, 2013 – While the working age Latino population is expected to increase by 5.6 percent by 2020, this demographic faces a number of challenges to realize their professional potential.  This infographic below highlights many of the strengths and challenges facing Latinos in the Rhode Island workforce.
Testimony on FY14 Budget Article 15 related to workforce development
March 01, 2013 – The Institute spoke on behalf of itself and the RI Workforce Alliance in support of the Governor’s proposed increase in funding dedicated to workforce training.
Response to Governor Chafee’s Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2014
January 26, 2013 – Learn what is and is not included in the Governor’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2014 with respect to workforce development, tax policy, health care, and programs for low and modest-income Rhode Islanders.
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.