Washington, DC – The following is a statement from Robert Espinoza, CEO at National Skills Coalition, in response to the introduction of the bipartisan Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce bill.
“The introduction of the bipartisan Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce bill in the House and Senate today is a significant step forward for working people, businesses, and our economy. If enacted, this bill would build digital skills for workers in in-demand industries by establishing capacity within postsecondary education, adult education, and workforce development systems to design and deliver digital skills training.”
“In our increasingly digital world, employment opportunities, innovation, productivity, talent attraction, and even our nation’s economic competitiveness hinge on widespread proficiency with digital skills. It’s critical that our federal policies prioritize and facilitate digital skills training.”
“The timing couldn’t be more crucial. Urgent demand for digital skills exists across every industry and in almost every occupation. Whether in agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, or logistics, digital skills are a prerequisite for success. Yet, recent National Skills Coalition research shows that 92 percent of today’s jobs require digital skills, but only two thirds of workers have the foundational digital skills to succeed in today’s economy.”
“By targeting resources toward digital-skill building, we can bridge this gap and unlock real benefits for workers, businesses, and state economies. For example, workers that qualify for jobs requiring even one digital skill can earn an average of 23 percent more than in a job requiring no digital skills.”
“Thank you to Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) and David Valadao (R-CA) for their remarkable leadership on this issue and for recognizing the collective voice and expertise of our coalition. Our coalition has long considered digital equity a key policy priority and called for a national strategy that guarantees foundational digital skills for all, lifelong upskilling, and rapid re-skilling for those who lose their jobs due to economic shifts.”
“Our national coalition of state leaders will gather in Washington, D.C. at National Skills Coalition’s Skills Summit in May to urge legislators and policymakers of both parties to co-sponsor the bill. Together, we can ensure that every worker and every business has access to the digital skills they need to succeed in the 21st Century workforce.”
National Skills Coalition fights for inclusive, high-quality skills training so that people have access to a better life, and local businesses see sustained growth. We engage in analysis and technical assistance, organizing, advocacy, and communications to improve state and federal skills policies. Learn more at nationalskillscoalition.org and follow us @skillscoalition.
