active in developing and supporting policies aimed at providing access to education and skills development to West Virginians ,” says McPhail . “ The WVMA vocally supported legislation to create the West Virginia Invests Grant Program , which provides last dollar in support for attending one of the state ’ s community and technical colleges for qualified students . We are also engaged in identifying and supporting policies that would provide a path to dual artists or credentialing for high school students .”
As for the active recruitment of workers , manufacturers are offering everything from retention bonuses to increased wages .
“ It varies by manufacturing sector , skills level and geography ,” McPhail says . “ Companies are providing bonuses for employee referrals and using social media to advertise positions . Companies are partnering with our community and technical college systems to develop programs that focus on high demand skills and offer opportunities to receive on the job training while pursuing degrees or credentialing .” •
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