You are probably asking yourself "say what"? How can my elected representative be in the workplace learning business? More and more, state governments are involved in allocating state resources for worker training, retraining and tax credits to incentivize businesses to expand, grow and keep workers in their states. Elected representative are responsible for appropriating state revenue in these areas.

States like Texas and Florida have grant programs designed to "up skill" current workers. Employers can apply (information is on their state workforce sites) for these funds, and these are annual appropriations. So, every year there is another pot of money to apply for. Some states, like Virginia, have a Jobs Investment program. This program, like others across the country, use training funds as an economic incentive for companies to relocate to the state. Other states, like Georgia, have a tax-credit program, for specific certification and training programs, for current workers of the state. These aren't grants, but are tax credits to the company (your accounting team will like these!).

So, who do you think is advising these elected officials on what programs, skills or training is needed by employers? What information can they use to know if these investments are really meeting the skill needs of employers in their state? How much should they invest in these programs (is more actually better?).

This is an opportunity to engage with your state legislature. You should be able to track state legislation on your state assembly's website. This information is open to the public, and usually by keyword search you can find workforce training bills and worker training appropriations information.

Then you should engage in a conversation with your representatives and offer your training expertise to advise them on these investments. Maybe your local ASTD chapter can help you in this effort?

As a reminder, if you coming to ICE, join us on Capitol Hill to meet with you member of Congress. Email [email protected] to sign up.

See you in DC!