The state Senate passed a bill Thursday that will expand the Advanced Manufacturing Training Grants Program. Sen. Julie Lassa, D-Stevens Point, authored the bill.
Created in 2009, the program supports customized training partnerships between private businesses and technical colleges with the goal of improving Wisconsin's economy.
More than 200 partnerships statewide have been funded by the grant, according to Lassa.
""Time and time again, business leaders have told us that finding workers with advanced manufacturing skills is their biggest hurdle,"" Lassa said. ""Advance Manufacturing Training Grants are unquestionably one of the best possible investments we can make in the economic recovery of our state and in the job security of our citizens.""
In a statement released before the bill was passed Thursday, Gov. Scott Walker said he was happy with the potential economic benefits of Thursday's legislative calendar.
""I am pleased with the legislation to move forward advanced manufacturing skills grants for technical colleges,"" Walker said. ""As I remained focused on improving Wisconsin's economy, I am hopeful that Democrats and Republicans will continue to join together to get Wisconsin working again.""
