SkillsUSA is calling on federal lawmakers to increase funding for career and technical education (CTE) programs and expand access to short-term, high-quality training, as the demand for skilled labor grows in today’s evolving economy.
In its recently released legislative priorities, SkillsUSA emphasized that current support under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins V) is insufficient to meet both present needs and rising demand. The organization is urging Congress to strengthen investment in the Perkins Basic State Grant program, which underpins most federal CTE support nationwide.
“CTE equips students with the skills they need to power America’s industries,” SkillsUSA said in the release. “Yet current funding levels remain well below what is needed.”
To align CTE with modern workforce demands, SkillsUSA is also advocating for targeted investments in innovation — particularly programs focused on artificial intelligence, automation and other emerging technologies — as well as geographically inclusive support across rural and underserved communities.
Another major policy recommendation includes expanding Pell Grant eligibility to cover high-quality, short-term CTE programs. The organization argues that many working adults and non-traditional students depend on shorter training pathways to quickly gain industry-recognized credentials and advance in their careers.
“Today’s students are more likely to pursue postsecondary education not just for a degree, but to gain specific skills and credentials that lead to good jobs and higher wages,” the release noted.
In addition to funding and financial aid reforms, SkillsUSA is urging lawmakers to:
• Keep federal CTE investments focused within public education systems.
• Strengthen alignment between Perkins V and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
• Standardize definitions for apprenticeships and expand access to supportive services across education and workforce systems.
• Address the critical shortage of skilled instructors by supporting better compensation, professional development, and licensure reciprocity across states.
“These legislative priorities reflect our commitment to preparing students for the careers that keep America running,” the organization said. “Whether they’re learning to weld, code, repair engines or lead teams — our students are building the future.”
