 INDIANAPOLIS –Gov. Eric J. Holcomb today signed two workforce-focused bills at Cummins Global Distribution Center in downtown Indianapolis. The bills—HEA 1002 and SEA 50—were among Gov. Holcomb’s Next Level priorities for the 2018 legislative session.
“These two bills position us to transform the state’s current approach to workforce development,†Gov. Holcomb said. “In the months ahead, we’ll assess our current programs, align them better to the needs of real job creators, and make them more accessible and easier to use.â€
This new legislation will expand access to training funds for Hoosier adults and employers via the state’s Next Level Jobs initiative. It will also encourage more employer-driven, regionally-focused workforce partnerships, like the one between Cook Group, Monroe County Consolidated School Corporation and Ivy Tech in Bloomington. Additionally, the bills signed by Gov. Holcomb today will also put a stronger emphasis on high-demand careers experiencing shortages, such as nursing, and create the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet.
“We look forward to continuing to work with our state and local leaders and public and private organizations across the state to develop the workforce we need now and for the jobs of tomorrow,†said Cathy Van Way, Executive Director, Government Relations, Cummins Inc. “It will take significant work by all of us to equip both young students and adults with the skills necessary for the rapidly changing technical jobs. Cummins understands that our businesses are only as strong as the communities in which we live and by creating a strong workforce, we can increase opportunities for more Hoosiers to thrive and to set Indiana apart as a national leader in workforce development.â€
