The skills to succeed – Congressman Bob Goodlatte

NEW! Associated Press: Trump signs law to make VA more accountable for vets’ care

An economy that can create jobs is a great thing. In fact, that’s the goal of the policies I support in Congress. But what if there is no one with the right skills to fill these jobs? Today, there are many open jobs in communities throughout Virginia waiting for highly-skilled, trained individuals.

Just days ago, the House passed the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. This bill reauthorizes and builds upon the success of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, a more than three-decade-old law that provides federal support to state and local career and technical education, or CTE, programs. The widely bipartisan bill increases flexibility in how states can use federal funds for CTE programs, empowering state leaders to provide more funds to rural jurisdictions as well as better focusing programs on in-demand industries in their communities.

Career and technical education is helping bridge career paths for many students and adults in the Sixth District. With support from Virginia Western Community College, Botetourt Technical Education Center (BTEC) will soon launch its mechatronics program, which will help students learn the technical skills necessary in the fusion of mechanical and electrical engineering and information technology. Furthermore, CTE grants have helped schools like BTEC purchase the necessary equipment to train students to be qualified in auto repair, cosmetology, and even helped BTEC’s advanced welding lab become the first high school program in Virginia to be certified by the American Welding Society.

Another exciting opportunity was recently announced as part of a program through Massanutten Technical Center and Rockingham County Public Schools. A new Agricultural Production Technology course will give students hands-on experience on a working farm, teaching them about animal and crop science as well as the business management skills needed for a future career in the agriculture industry. Programs like this don’t just focus on classroom instruction – they also teach students how to “do.”

There is no one path to success. What you do need is the right set of skills to succeed in your chosen field. Developing the workforce through career and technical education helps Americans compete for high-skilled jobs in today’s economy. Most importantly, CTE programs not only connect folks with higher quality, better paying jobs, but also put them on the path to a lifelong career. Click here to read my full weekly column.

Two Bills Introduced to Combat Sanctuary Cities & Enhance Public Safety — This week, I introduced the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act and Kate’s Law. Read more here. Both bills are expected on the House floor next week.

Snapshots from the Sixth 

Earlier this week, I toured the Academy Center of the Arts in Lynchburg. The theater renovations are making progress, and I enjoyed catching part of a rehearsal for an upcoming production!

It’s always good to meet young people who are interested in politics and government. Fiona, a student at Hidden Valley High School in Roanoke, was in D.C. this week for a Young Women’s Political Leadership Program.

Should you have further questions, please visit the “Contact Bob” section of my website or call (202) 225-5431.