Press Release

Contact: Sabrina Siddiqui 202-226-6476

Washington, Jan 6, 2010 - Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-IA) announced today that Iowa will receive funds for job training in Iowa. Congressman Loebsack has been an avid supporter of job training, particularly in new and emerging industries such as wind energy. These funds will be used to help unemployed, dislocated workers receive training that will help them garner jobs in renewable energy industries that are growing and need additional, highly skilled workers. This includes jobs in areas such as renewable electric power, energy efficient assessment, and energy efficient building.

“These grants are yet another step in our ongoing efforts to help America become a global leader in new and emerging industries. It is through job training and industry partnerships that Iowa has emerged as a national leader in wing energy,” said Congressman Loebsack. “As we work to move our economy forward, we must continue to invest in the most integral part of our economy – our workforce. These training grants will make long term investments in our workforce, equipping them with the tools to succeed in a 21st century economy.”

These training grants include technician programs in Wind Turbine Repair, as well as RESNET Home Energy Rater training, and Green Building Professional Certification.  The programs will include placement and retention features to help Iowa workers find employment and continue to advance within their field.

Implementation of the grant program will include partnerships with stakeholders such as Dubuque Area Labor Management Council and United Labor Participation Committee, Clipper Turbine Works, Acciona Windpower, Independent Wind Turbine Services, Alliant Energy, Gronen Restoration, Loomis Plumbing and Heating, and K & K Gardens. These training programs are funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Congressman Loebsack has been a strong advocate for job training and industry partnerships with his Strengthening Employment Clusters to Organize Regional Success (SECTORS) Act, and has pushed for programs and grants that connect new and emerging industries with highly skilled workers. For more information on Congressman Loebsack’s workforce development initiatives, click here.