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ETA News Release: [07/11/2005]
Contact Name: David James or Stephanie Cathcart
Phone Number: 202-693-4676 or 202-431-3239
Release Number: 05-1311-NAT

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Opens Workforce Innovations 2005

National Conference Promotes Innovation, Integration and Transformation

PHILADELPHIA — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today opened the nation's premier conference for workforce professionals, Workforce Innovations 2005—A Declaration of Innovation, in Philadelphia. Over 2,500 are expected to attend this year's event.

“Technology and the march of innovation have created an economy marked by competition from around the globe, among all industries and affecting all workers,” said Secretary Chao. “The federally funded job training systems designed in the 20th century need to be challenged to meet the nation's demand for talent equipped with the skills to succeed in this fast-paced economy. Our workforce preparation system must be reformed to meet the needs for skilled workers.”

Besides Chao, the conference will feature three days of engaging speakers including Business Week Chief Economist Michael Mandel, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, U.S. Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services Al Frink and former Michigan Governor and current National Association of Manufacturers President John Engler.

“We are focused on modernizing job training programs to help American workers succeed in good careers,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco. “Workforce Innovations 2005 is about sharing successful strategies and fostering collaboration among public officials and private sector leaders who can make a difference for workers.”

This year's conference will feature more than 300 national, state and local leaders confirmed to speak, over 100 exhibit booths, 70 workshops, interactive displays in the Career Voyages showcase, and town hall meetings with national workforce investment leaders.

The conference will continue through Wednesday, July 13. For more information on Workforce Innovations 2005 features, as well as a complete conference agenda, please visit www.workforceinnovations.org.