Building the Broadband Workforce: Finding and Training Workers

As billions of dollars from the federal infrastructure law begin to flow, state officials and internet service providers must secure a skilled workforce to accomplish ambitious plans for broadband internet access. This webinar provides information on: - How states are implementing broadband workforce development programs that align community colleges, workforce agencies, employers, and other partners. - Public policies that help nontraditional workers find on-ramps into the industry and improve retention of existing workers. - State Labor Market Information and data resources that inform upskilling and retraining efforts, to develop the workforce needed in rural communities, exurban areas, and beyond. Speakers: Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, Senior Fellow at National Skills Coalition, leads the organization’s work on adult education and workforce policies to expand opportunities for US-born and immigrant adults. Leandro Garcia, Florida Broadband Office, works with local and state government agencies, community organizations and private businesses to increase broadband Internet access throughout the state. Michael Murphy, Senior Project Manager, Colorado Broadband Office, assists with the development and implementation of the broadband grant programs for the State of Colorado. Alan Spell, Assistant Extension Professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia specializes in economic and industry research for MU Extension. His work includes publishing monthly Missouri Economy Indicator briefs and studies of the economic benefits of broadband expansion. Josh Morby serves as the Director of the Wisconsin Broadband Workforce Coalition which brings employers, training providers and job seekers together to support the workforce needed to expand broadband access in Wisconsin. Dave Stehlin, TIA CEO brings 30+ years of experience leading the development and implementation of key business and technology strategies in the ICT industry.