Issue Position: Workforce Development

Issue Position

Maine is fortunate to have record low unemployment. However, this comes with its own set of challenges. Many businesses, particularly in the trade and service industries, are struggling to find properly trained workers.

I believe that a strong workforce starts with a strong education, and I have always and will always stand up for Maine's public schools. As part of our approach to education, I also believe that we need to embrace all skillsets, helping students who have a talent for the trades obtain an education that lets them earn a good living putting their skills to use. That's why I've been a strong supporter of Career and Technical Education.

As we look to the future, more and more jobs will require knowledge in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) sectors. Through encouraging improved and expanded STEM education in Maine schools, we can help our state achieve a bright future with a highly prepared workforce.

Maine is at a critical juncture. We are the oldest state in the nation, and many in the workforce are nearing the end of their careers. With many young people still leaving Maine to find work, it will only become harder and harder to fill open jobs with qualified workers. That's why I believe it is crucial that we incentivize young people to stay in Maine, and to move here.

In the House, I proposed legislation to create a tax credit for people who have completed a post-secondary degree. The legislation would allow anyone who graduated after 2007 to get a dollar for dollar credit for debt paid, and this offer would extend to the employer as well in an effort to help recruit and retain employees. I believe that this kind of approach, coupled with a continued emphasis on marketing our state and its opportunities can truly help us turn around the demographic and workforce problems that we face as a state.

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