California Business Minute™

Hi, I am Tim Johnson and welcome to the California Business Minute.

In a recent speech before an event with the Associated Builders and Contractor’s
in Livermore, John C. Duncan, director of the California Department of Industrial
highlighted the need for skilled trades’ workers on upcoming public works projects.

Earlier this year to raise awareness of the need for a skilled workforce in California,
Governor Schwarzenegger launched the "I Built It" Campaign. The campaign raised
awareness of career opportunities through apprenticeship programs made available
through the Governor's $43 billion of infrastructure bonds passed by voters in 2006.

Under California law, one apprentice for every five journeymen is required to be employed
on all public works job. California will be facing the challenge of attracting and developing
the critical workforce required to rebuild infrastructure and to replace the coming retirement
of baby boomers.

"In California, 830,000 jobs will become available over the next seven years due to retirements,"
said Duncan. "An estimated 200,000 new apprentices will be needed over the next 10-12 years.
Graduates from apprenticeship schools like ABC Golden Gate Chapter will help fill the shortage
of skilled workers."

I am Tim Johnson and this has been the California Business Minute.

For more information about California apprenticeship programs, go to www.ibuiltit.org.