BISMARCK, N.D. (KFGO/PRAIRIE PUBLIC) – The president and CEO of the Greater North Dakota Chamber says he’s happy with the work the Legislature has done on workforce development, but Spencer says there’s more work to do.
Arik Spencer said childcare has been a top issue in attracting workers. He said there is $73 million in the Human Services budget for day care accessibility and affordability.
“When people have children – can they stay in the workforce? It’s going to cost them more in daycare than they earn in their job,” Spencer said. “Taking a look at those things holistically, we’re pleased with the work thus far.”
Spencer also points to money in the University System budget to grow the “North Dakota Career Builders’ Program.”
“It’s a program that employers contribute to,” Spencer said. “The state will match it and for certain in-demand careers, trade school careers, and four-year degrees, a student can graduate from college with no debt with the caveat that they have to live here and work here for three years.”
Spencer said he’s excited about the proposal to establish an “Office of Immigration.” He said he’s happy lawmakers are taking these issues seriously.
