The Indiana House of Representatives voted in favor of legislation sponsored by State Rep. Holli Sullivan (R-Evansville) that would incorporate interdisciplinary employability skills standards into every school corporation’s curriculum.
According to a 2018 Indiana Chamber survey, 47 percent of employers reported having jobs unfilled because applicants are under-qualified. This legislation would better ensure students gain valuable interpersonal and workforce skills to be more successful in their post-secondary plans.
“There are currently more than 96,000 job openings statewide, and Hoosier employers are having a hard time finding candidates to fill these positions,†Sullivan said. “Ensuring students have universal skills like communication, problem solving, teamwork and workplace etiquette will make them more employable and prepared for life after high school.â€
Sullivan said the General Assembly is working toward a long-term solution to Indiana’s workforce crisis, and this bill addresses one of its many aspects.
