Iowa success stories show how to fix skilled worker shortage

(Des Moines) Iowans who used innovative pilot programs to recover from lost jobs and qualify to fill existing job openings today told legislators how they did it.  The three Iowans used new community college programs aimed at filling current, local job openings.  Senate Democrats say the efforts should be expanded and taken statewide.

Video and profiles of the speakers

Complete video of event

“Economists and business leaders repeatedly tell us a persistent shortage of skilled workers hurts Iowa’s economy,” said Senator Steve Sodders of State Center, chair of the Senate Economic Growth Committee.  “

These Iowa success stories make the case for investing more in helping Iowans gain the skills Iowa businesses need to grow and create jobs.”

Legislators want to expand community college offerings to include classes for recognized certificates, professional licenses and registered apprenticeships alongside classes for academic credit.

“Helping Iowans take that first step can lead to big results,” Sodders said.  “That’s why Democratic and Republican legislators both generally support workforce training.  Helping Iowans improve their skills, starting with basic adult literacy and GED programs, results in big rewards for families and for the Iowa economy.  This is the year to act on what we’ve learned and go statewide.”

One of the speakers at the news conference was Mike Sevart of Cedar Rapids.  Sevart lost his job of 32 years when his employer closed.  He enrolled in the combination welding program at Kirkwood Community College while earning an Adult High School Diploma, and was hired by a local manufacturing firm shortly after receiving his diploma.

“The state offered me the chance to become a welder, and I took it,” said Sevart.  “I’m proof that after 32 years of doing the same job, you can learn new tricks given the chance.  I’m back earning a paycheck, paying taxes, and I support helping other Iowans learn the skills they need to get hired.”

GAP, the Gap Assistance Program, “fills the GAP” by funding non-credit programs to earn recognized certificates and professional licenses, classes which do not qualify for federal student financial aid.   PACE, the Pathways for Academic Career and Employment, coordinates efforts to help returning students and identifies local job openings.

Despite the fact that Governor Branstad’s budget called for a 40% cut in workforce training, legislators are optimistic, given the proven success of this approach and the obvious need of Iowa businesses for skilled workers.  Senate President Jack Kibbie is working on creating a new $20 million workforce fund (Senate File 2024) which would closely coordinate local workforce training with proven local business needs.

“Helping unemployed or under-employed Iowans improve their skills isn’t just the right thing to do for those families.  It is absolutely essential if we want to grow the Iowa economy and create more jobs for everyone,” said Sodders.