Linking Infrastructure and Capital Investments with Jobs and Training Working Poor Families Project 2009 State Policy Academy June 10-11, Chicago

Academy wrap-up and policy recommendations Session #4 Academy wrap-up and policy recommendations

Obstacles to connecting job training Access to funds for training (project & other) Program and agency silos Limited state oversight/policy for RA Staff capacity EEO enforcement Pre-app standards, links to RA, funding, T.A. Low #s of apprenticeship programs

Obstacles to Expanding Job Access Low-road policies No or limited prevailing wage policies No AUR Low bid contracts Opposition to PLA Legality of local/targeted hiring policies Local capacity Lack of interest and advocacy

Steps to action Build the case Develop partnerships Launch a campaign Research into state policies and practices Analyze labor market needs (employer needs, skill gaps) Examine best practices for job training and access Explore opportunities to tie to public investments Develop partnerships Groups with expertise in industry sector or legislative activity Coalition to strengthen message Launch a campaign Make specific policy recommendations

Recommendations for State Action Set hiring targets and job quality standards Set apprenticeship utilization requirements Require a portion of project funds be used for training Tie job access, quality, and training policies together Establish state guidelines/funds for pre-apprenticeship Connect (pre-)apprenticeship to education & training Ensure compliance with federal access/training policies