The construction industry is experiencing a significant workforce shortage with record job openings and record low unemployment. Tell Congress to reform federal education policy to help the industry meet its present and future workforce needs.

Here's why this matters:

• Current federal funding disproportionately favors traditional four-year higher education.
• Less than 15 percent of all federal post-secondary education spending goes toward workforce education and job training.
• The federal Pell Grant program, which offers needs-based aid to low-income individuals seeking a career, is only available to students enrolled in semester-long programs further skewing these resources towards traditional four-year higher education.

This funding bias negatively impacts the construction industry, and that must change.

Congress can take corrective action by passing the JOBS Act. This legislation will expand needs-based financial aid Pell Grant eligibility to short-term training courses and programs - an important step towards bridging the skills gap and helping individuals receive necessary training for job development.

Taking action is easy. Simply submit the pre-written messages as is to your Representative and Senators or customize them with personal information on how this issue impacts you and your company.