technical education bill wins strong congressional approval

Legislation that could produce more skilled workers for the nation’s construction industry has made its way out of both the House and Senate in Washington.

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act pushes for an easing of state regulations regarding technical education programs in public schools.

The bill also asks those same schools to develop career and technical education programs specifically designed to respond to the needs of today’s construction and trades industries.

Students completing such courses of study typically receive either a certificate, credential, or degree.

“It’s encouraging to see Congress acting in a bipartisan way to pass a measure that will provide a long-overdue boost to career and technical education in the country,” Stephen Sandherr, the chief executive officer of the Association General Contractors of America, said in a statement upon the legislation’s passage in the House.

“For too long we have chosen to push every student to college instead of providing them with essential and valuable skills,” continued Sandherr, adding that the Congressional vote “marks a milestone in rebalancing the nation’s education approach by offering students multiple paths to success.”

An amendment to the Strengthening Career and Technical Education legislation is currently being reviewed in the House. Once that process ends, the bill will be sent to President Trump for his signature.

By Garry Boulard