ATEC Supports Legislation to Create DOT Workforce Campaign

ATEC recently joined a coalition of more than 30 organizations representing U.S. aviation, trucking, rail, and maritime interests to express support for legislation promoting career opportunities available throughout the nation’s transportation sector.

The Promoting Service in Transportation Act (H.R. 3310 and S. 1681) calls on lawmakers to authorize funding for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop a series of broadcast, digital and print public service announcements highlighting available careers in transportation as all sectors of the industry regain strength in the aftermath of COVID-19.“The pandemic has reminded all of us how vital transportation is to our economy and our lives,” reads the coalition’s letter to leaders of the House and Senate transportation committees. Although COVID-19 temporarily impacted hiring of new workers across the industry, “as recovery continues the demand for qualified workers will return, and the workforce shortage will yet again destabilize transportation operations.”

The coalition further noted the DOT campaign would also promote greater diversity throughout the next-generation transportation workforce. “H.R. 3310 and S. 1681 are an opportunity to highlight for young people of all races, genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses that transportation careers are good, high paying jobs that embrace technology and offer a bright future,” the letter continued.

The coalition, led by the National Business Aviation Association, is currently seeking additional co-sponsors for the legislation with the ultimate goal to see the Promoting Service in Transportation Act included as part of a larger infrastructure measure.

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Rick Larsen (D-2-WA), Rep. Don Young (R-AK) and Rep. Angie Craig (D-2-MN) reintroduced the legislation from the previous Congress, with Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) sponsoring the Senate bill.