Public Policy

National Policy Seminar 2021

2021 ACTE National Policy Seminar encouraged state teams to contact their state representatives and senators. WA-ACTE Executive Director set up zoom meetings with Senator Cantwell and the following Washington State Representatives. I was part of the team that spoke with these representatives or their designated staffers. My "ask" was increased/designated Carl Perkins funding for the 2022, redefining LEA to include skills/tech centers and to provide insight into the need for and use of COVID relief funds.

A week after we returned from NPS 2022 we were able to have zoom meetings with our Federal and State Legislators:

Representative Newhouse - 4th District Representative McMorris - 5th District

Representative Schrier - 8th District Representative Strickland - 10th District

Representative Del Bene - 1st District Representative Kilmer - 6th District

Representative Larsen - 2nd District

Our team meet with each representative and did a round robin format with each of us having a specific focus. My focus was on the importance of the PELL grant being available for students who were earning less than a college degree. For instance enough classes to earn a specific short term certificate. This is important for many high school students who want to earn a post secondary credential before entering the workforce. It doesn't mean they won't eventually go back to earn a degree. It just means At This Time, they need to earn money for themselves and their families.

Region V Interview with Federal Representative

Zoom Meeting May 5^th 10:30 AM

Congressman Derek Kilmer and Leah Li, DC Office Legislative Assistant

My focus question: As you know, we have been allocated funding for a new skills center here in Kitsap County. Once that facility is finished, we will have space to start new programs.

What essential industries have you found in your travels around Kitsap, Jefferson, and North Mason counties would benefit from a pipeline of new employees.

His response: Regionally – connect with the Economic development council. They are current on the economics of Kitsap County and the surrounding areas.

Kitsap County

Top industries struggling for employees include:

· Allied health - medical

· Building and construction especially residential

· Home builders association can help.

· HVAC

· Reaching out to shipyard – team They have an aging workforce and will know the greatest needs

An aging workforce is the “800 lb. gorilla” in our local economy.

Jefferson County has an expanding maritime trade so they need workers.

Mason County, Shelton

Jennifer Baria (jennifer@choosemason.com), Economic Development Council

They are partnering with Olympic College to expand training in construction. Bremerton would like the OC campus to do the same.

Interview State Legislator

Representative Drew MacEwen - 35th District (where I live)