Federal Investment to deal with labor shortage

Even though Wisconsin is a city that historically has low unemployment rates, its industries have been struggling with labor shortages. 

Therefore, a $2 million federal investment will be made to address these issues. Lawmakers and employers like Milwaukee Waterworks have been working to change the scenario. The money will be used for employment and job training services through Employ Milwaukee in partnership with Milwaukee Waterworks. Experts believe that fewer people are looking for employment, Wisconsin witnessed a record low unemployment rate at 2.8% during the last couple of months which is an indicator of the relative lack of growth in the labor force against the fast growth in adding jobs. Tackling worker shortage across all industries remains the goal, bringing more people into the workforce is not just adding more jobs, it's also dealing with issues such as affordable housing, transportation, child care, etc which prevent people from entering the workforce. The DWD programs will also work toward providing more employment opportunities to disabled people. 

Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Senator Tammy Baldwin spoke about the investment during a press conference  "We can add to the ranks of workers who are keeping our infrastructure operating right here in city. We can employ workers who will replace lead service lines in Milwaukee, which we all know is a needed thing." said Mayor Johnson. "At the federal level, it's about continuing to address the obstacles for people going back to work...in my mind that involves focusing on child care," said Sen Baldwin. 

Source: CBS 58