A bill to address the telecommunications workforce shortage was introduced in the House of Representatives late Thursday. The measure, H.R. 3255, the TOWER Infrastructure Deployment Act (see below in is entirety), is getting favorable reaction today.
If passed, the FCC would establish a Telecommunications Workforce Development Advisory Council. Members would develop and make recommendations to the agency on ways to improve workforce development and increase participation in industry-led workforce development programs.
Reps. Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Yvette Clarke (D-NY) co-sponsored the bill. Walberg said developing a skilled workforce needs to be a top priority. Clarke noted that women and people of color are underrepresented in the telecom industry, and she supports legislation to address that.
Industry trade associations applauded the measure’s introduction in Congress. Wireless Infrastructure Association President/CEO Jonathan Adelstein said the bill will provide the necessary focus to help train a 5G-ready workforce. National Association of Tower Erectors Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Director Jim Goldwater said NATE views the bill, “as another important vehicle to highlight the workforce needs of our diverse industry as we begin to ramp up for the protracted 5G deployment cycle.”
To view the full bill, click here.
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