Spanberger was Joined by Speakers From Local Chambers of Commerce, Colleges & School Divisions that Serve Students in Virginia’s Seventh District, & Economic Development Agencies

WOODBRIDGE, Va. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today hosted her 2024 Workforce Training Summit to bring together Virginia business owners, employers, and economic development, education, and industry leaders.

Spanberger and panelists took questions from attendees, provided their outlook on efforts to strengthen Virginia’s workforce, and responded to feedback about existing workforce training and development initiatives in Virginia. At the start of the event held at George Mason University’s Potomac Science Center, Spanberger highlighted the work she has done in the U.S. House of Representatives to increase federal investments in proven workforce development programs to strengthen job training, improve adult education, and support services for job seekers.

“The Virginians participating in this summit know what works. They know that when we’re investing in our workforce, we’re investing in the long-term strength of our economy. They also know that when we help job seekers get the skills they need, we are helping Virginians advance their careers and helping businesses hold on to talented employees.” said Spanberger. “Much like these dedicated partners, I’m committed to doing all that I can to make sure Virginia remains the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I appreciate every Virginian who took time out of their busy schedules to discuss these important efforts, and to learn about how businesses and workforce education programs are innovating to meet the demands of the future.”

Panelists at this week’s 2024 Workforce Training Summit included:

Workforce Panel

• Bryan Rothamel, Economic Development Director, Culpeper County Economic Development
• Bob Sweeney, President & CEO, Prince William Chamber of Commerce
• Ernisha Hall, President & CEO, Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce

Education Panel

• Dr. Janet Gullickson, President, Germanna Community College
• Dr. Daniel Hornick, Superintendent, Orange County Public Schools
• Patrick Small, Economic Development Director, City of Manassas Economic Development
• Dr. Molly Lynch, Provost, Northern Virginia Community College – Manassas Campus

BACKGROUND

Spanberger has long worked to strengthen job training and support services for job seekers. In April 2024, Spanberger introduced the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act alongside U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) to expand digital skills training within postsecondary education, adult education, and workforce development systems. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would also make specific, targeted investments in digital skills training to help Americans seeking jobs or upskilling opportunities and Americans with barriers to employment learn or build digital skills.

Last year, Spanberger reintroduced the bipartisan Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act alongside U.S. Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) to give individuals in Virginia and across the country the freedom to use their 529 savings plans to cover the costs of certain workforce training and credentialing programs. The legislationis supported by more than 145 Members of Congress — both Democrats and Republicans.

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