Graves Hearing Examines the Challenge of Small Businesses Finding Qualified Applicants

Statement

House Small Business Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) today held a full committee hearing to examine small businesses' growing need for highly skilled and trained workers and how private, industry-led portable skills certification programs are helping meet these needs while improving career and educational prospects for students and workers.

"There is no doubt that America has the finest workers in the world," said Graves. "However, advances in technology have increased the need for workers with specialized skill sets and this must be reflected in new innovative training programs.

"It is refreshing to hear how the private-sector has jumped in to meet this need instead of more government programs funded by taxpayer dollars. Successful programs such as CompTIA and the NAM-Endorsed Manufacturing Skills Certification System are providing workers a way to gain new, specialized skills that will not only meet the need of a small business, but open the door for job opportunities.

"Much more must be done in this area to keep American workers on the cutting edge, but I am hopeful after today's hearing that the private-sector along with colleges and training facilities are on the right path. In the midst of a recession, this is exactly the kind of progress we need to help create good-paying jobs and get our economy thriving again."

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