It’s time we start telling the truth: a four-year degree doesn’t guarantee success and it’s not the only pathway to succeed.
Across the country, there’s a shortage of 80,000 truck drivers and if this trend continues, that number is expected to double in the next five years. Drivers are critical for many industries – including agriculture. Farmers rely on drivers to help transport their animals and their crops.
Skilled workers are in high demand and promoting other avenues to success is good for employees, good for business, and good for our country. Apprenticeships and training programs are critical to addressing this crisis and opening doors for Iowans to good-paying jobs. I’m committed to investing in these critical programs and expanding opportunities for Iowans.
That’s why I joined DMACC to announce a $1 million federal investment in their new Transportation Institute Education Center. With this funding and private-public partnerships, DMACC will build a new education center for CDL drivers and double the number of students they can educate at one time. This key investment will help boost the workforce in Iowa and support our economy.