Policy Recommendations For a Strong U.S. Workforce
America needs to fix its workforce development system to expand economic opportunity for all Americans and help workers tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.
The U.S. faces significant workforce challenges:
- The overall workforce participation rate is declining
- Technological advancement and the rapid deployment of AI increasingly require workers with digital skills and proficiency
- America’s population and workforce is aging
- Access to training programs is limited
- The workforce development system is inefficient and outdated
Reauthorizing the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act and effective implementation of Workforce Pell Grants would put America on the path to building a resilient, adaptable workforce.
Reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
Improving how the federal government invests in workforce development will better prepare U.S. workers for in-demand careers, enable businesses to fill critical roles with skilled workers at scale and advance industries key to strengthening U.S. economic growth and competitiveness.
Business Roundtable supports reauthorization and modernization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). CEOs support legislation to promote employer-driven training programs — including work-based learning opportunities like apprenticeships — that equip workers with the skills for fulfilling careers. Legislation should provide increased flexibility and empower states to structure workforce systems that meet their needs with strong accountability. More WIOA funding should be directed toward upskilling workers through individual training accounts, on-the-job learning and other industry-led training.
Learn more:
- Business Roundtable: House, Senate Agreement on WIOA Legislation Is Important Step Toward Building America’s Ever-Ready Workforce | Business Roundtable
- ICYMI: Business Roundtable Workforce Chair Urges Passage of WIOA Modernization Bill | Business Roundtable
- Business Roundtable Letter on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Hearing | Business Roundtable
Workforce Pell Grants
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act included Workforce Pell Grants, a priority strongly supported by CEOs. Effective implementation of Workforce Pell is critical to ensure short-term, high-quality education and training programs align with employer demand and prepare workers for in-demand jobs. To maximize Workforce Pell’s impact, consistent rules, streamlined multistate approval, and strong coordination with WIOA and the broader workforce system are essential. These steps will help employers fill critical talent gaps and help more Americans translate skills into career growth and upward mobility.
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