State Rep. Ed Neilson (D-Philadelphia) recently hosted a House Democratic Policy Committee public hearing on workforce development at the UA Steamfitters Local 420 Hall.
“I’m glad to have the opportunity to bring my colleagues to talk about how we can help train Pennsylvania’s future workforce,” Neilson said. “We have an obligation to educate the future electricians, builders, and plumbers. These are jobs that fuel our economy and communities, and can’t be outsourced.”
Legislators from across the state including Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster) participated in the policy discussion. The meeting is one in a series being held across the state on House Democrats’ Plan4PA.
“As we work on House Democrats’ Plan4PA, we’re working hard to learn more how we can equip businesses with a well-trained workforce prepared to carry out the needs of the future,” Sturla said. “When we create quality educational opportunities for the trades, we create family-sustaining careers that can’t be outsourced. Thanks to Representative Neilson for his meaningful work with unions to make sure their voices and needs are heard.”
Testifiers included Ryan Boyer, president of Philadelphia Building Trades; Pete Klein, director of training at Steamfitters Local Union 420; Don Sweeten, training coordinator and financial secretary at Sprinkler Fitters Local 692; Brian Murphy, assistant coordinator and director of apprentice and training at IUOE 542 JATC; and other local building trade representatives.