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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Mike Sturla
| State Rep. Pam DeLissio
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House Democratic Policy Committee explores lifelong learning
and workforce development
BALA CYNWYD, May 16 – The House Democratic Policy Committee heard from education advocates and employment experts at a public hearing today to look at the role of lifelong learning in Pennsylvania’s workforce development, said committee Chairman Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster.
State Rep. Pam DeLissio, D-Montgomery/Phila., requested the hearing and served as co-chairman. The testimony centered on the changing skillsets needed throughout a person’s career, and the best way for workers to transition and improve their competencies; as well as new demands on the state’s workforce.
"Rapid advancements in technology are placing higher demands on our workforce to keep their skills current in order to be competitive," Sturla said. "Representative DeLissio continues to be a leader in helping her constituents acquire the tools needed to meet those demands no matter their age or industry."
"The days of graduating high school or college with skills that will be sufficient for an entire career have passed," DeLissio said. "It's critical that employers encourage workers to expand their skillsets, that communities strengthen learning centers, and that institutions aid and accommodate workers in their new role as students."
Those testifying at the hearing included: Meg Shope Koppel, interim CEO, Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board; Suzanne Holloman, dean of workforce and continuing education, Montgomery County Community College; Dr. Judith Gay, associate vice president for academic affairs, Community College of Philadelphia; Mattie Harrigan, associate director of employment services, Philadelphia Developmental Disabilities Corp.; Arlene Solomon, director of employment and education services, Education Plus; and Bernard Dagenais, president and CEO, Main Line Chamber of Commerce.
For more information about the Policy Committee and hearing materials, visit www.pahouse.com/PolicyCommittee.
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