The U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee recently advanced the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act.
The bill, commonly called “Perkins” as it modernizes the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, reforms educational requirements so they align with tech jobs. It was sponsored by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi
(D-IL) and Glenn Thompson (R-PA).
The bill also creates incentive programs to prepare students for high-skill positions and to encourage work-based learning and dual enrollment in postsecondary education and training.
State reserve funds would be expanded to establish programs to prepare students for high-tech occupations.
Employers would be consulted when assessing skills and performance goals.
“If the United States is to remain a leader, a robust STEM workforce is crucial to ensuring a strong industrial base that supports U.S. global competitiveness, innovation, economic strength and national security,” Tami Plofchan, Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) director of legislative affairs, said. The act “brings the CTE system into the 21st Century and we urge the House to take floor action quickly.”
AIA joined The Opportunity America Jobs and Careers Coalition in writing Krishnamoorthi and Thompson to applaud them for the bill and for acknowledging the critical role of the employer.