Building a Skilled Workforce

September 13, 2023

During the 2023 legislative session, we successfully passed several measures, which will enhance and support our skilled workforce and make our state more attractive for companies and new businesses.
 
These new initiatives in diverse fields including education, aviation, healthcare, and first responders seek to attract the best talent from within and beyond to create a top-notch workforce.

In Waterbury, we are thankful to be part of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), which is dedicated to developing and maintaining skilled workers across all sectors, connecting talent to opportunity in high-demand industries, and empowering our workforce.

The NRWIB is part of a statewide network of 19 American Job Centers in Connecticut, delivering free employment services through one-on-one career counseling, career training, and job placement assistance. The NRWIB will undoubtedly get a boost from the legislation we passed in Hartford. Below are some of the highlights:

Public Act 23-97 is a multifaceted step forward for those in the medical fields.

Additional measures include:
 
Public Act 23-167:

  • Expands school-based apprenticeship opportunities in aviation and aerospace
  • Builds on training for future paraeducators
  • Offers dual credit/enrollment opportunities

Public Act 23-55:

  • Creates prosecutor apprenticeships for law school students

Public Act 23-207:

  • Creates tax credits and incentives for towns and businesses that build and/or develop housing set aside for specific workforces including teachers, police officers, and firefighters.

A skilled workforce is one of the foundations of a robust economy. My colleagues and I are committed to strengthening our current and future workers by providing the necessary tools to help them thrive and succeed.