Jobs

Although the job market has steadily improved over the last two years, adding nearly 4 million new jobs, we still more work to do.  North Carolina’s unemployment rate has declined, but remains higher than the national average.

Sustaining long-term growth will depend heavily on of the nations ability to train a new generation workers for highly skilled and technical jobs. Across the country, the science and technology industries are rapidly expanding and generate twice as many new jobs as there are workers trained to do the job.  Over the next 10 years, nearly half of all U.S. job openings will be for positions which require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year college degree.  Many of those job openings will be in high-tech industries ranging from health care to aerospace.  I routinely hear from companies who want to hire but cannot find skilled workers to the jobs. 

Bold action is needed to bridge the gap between those looking for jobs and employers looking for skilled workers.  President Obama has outlined a clear vision, to invest in our nation’s education system, infrastructure, and workforce training programs in The American Jobs Act.  The bill, would help the U.S. compete in the global, high-tech economy by developing and nurturing the highest-skilled and most educated workers.     

House Republicans have blocked Congress from passing the American Jobs Act and several other meaningful efforts to spur job growth.  Along with my Democratic colleagues, I have urged House Republicans to allow a vote on thebill, and I have cosponsored bills that incorporate provisions of the American Jobs Act.

Congress must invest in education, infrastructure, and training programs that have traditionally laid the groundwork for robust economic growth and high levels of employment.  I will continue to fight for legislation like the American Jobs Act, which will help strengthen our economy and build a better future.