Opinion Pieces by Rob

In celebration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in February, I had the privilege of visiting the Advanced Career Education Center at Hermitage High School in Henrico County. This cutting-edge facility provides hands-on, skills-based training for high school juniors and seniors, equipping them for licensure and certification in vital fields such as construction, health care, transportation and public safety. These students are not just gaining knowledge — they are actively preparing for high-demand careers that are crucial to our economy.

Strengthening America’s education system is vital for fostering innovation and bolstering economic security. Currently, many businesses face talent shortages due to insufficient vocational education. The reality is, most jobs in America require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree, and many industries are struggling to find workers with the right skills. Sectors such as information technology, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades are in need of trained workers, and we must do more to encourage students to pursue these rewarding careers.

To better prepare our future workforce for a global economy, we must prioritize workforce development and continue promoting CTE and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. By increasing access to dual enrollment CTE training courses, we can empower students to earn certifications while still in high school. These programs offer a practical approach to education, enabling students to confidently enter the job market.

However, introducing CTE into high school curricula is just the beginning. We must also make job training and credentialing programs more accessible and affordable. Expanding access to postsecondary education and vocational training is not only an opportunity — it’s an economic necessity. That’s why I reintroduced the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, a bipartisan bill that allows individuals to use their 529 savings accounts for certification and job training programs. This simple change will enable more Americans to afford the credentials they need for well-paying careers without the burden of unnecessary student debt.

Virginia boasts the largest 529 program in the nation, and the commonwealth is home to a diverse array of industries, including advanced manufacturing, health care and IT. By expanding 529 plan eligibility, we can directly support the development of a skilled workforce that can meet our industries’ needs. This, in turn, will attract more businesses to our commonwealth, foster economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Additionally, I am committed to expanding access to career and technical education by opening federal Pell Grants for short-term vocational training and apprenticeships. My goal is to ensure our students have access to quality education and the opportunities necessary to succeed in today’s ever-evolving workforce.

While I was encouraged to see key provisions of my Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act advance through the House Ways and Means Committee last year, there is still much work to be done. If passed, the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act would represent a significant commitment to the American workforce — recognizing the value of all post-secondary educational paths and providing the means for individuals to succeed in their chosen careers. By investing in CTE and expanding job training opportunities, we can ensure that every student — regardless of their career path — has the tools they need to thrive.

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman represents the 1st Congressional District of Virginia, which includes the Historic Triangle, Poquoson, the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula and part of the Richmond suburbs. He serves as vice chairman of both the House Armed Services Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee.

Read the full article in the Virginian-Pilot/Daily Press here.