Workforce

04.16.20

Roughly two weeks after President Trump signed the CARES Act into law to inject $2.3 trillion into the U.S. economy to keep it afloat, the $350 billion allocated for small business assistance is expected to dry up by the end of the week. As of close-of-business Wednesday, 1.52 million small businesses were approved for $324 billion in loans.

03.30.20

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has updated its “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce” advisory list to more accurately define the plumbing and mechanical industry, a list that now includes language for which IAPMO advocated.”

03.26.20

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued guidance outlining essential workers that should be exempt from any quarantine orders issued by state or local governments requiring citizens to stay at home.

03.26.20

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress has passed two bills providing financial aid and is currently debating a third bill that will provide significant economic stimulus (subsequently known as “Phase 1,” “Phase 2,” and “Phase 3”). 

03.20.20

The President and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have issued a Coronavirus Guidance for America identifying plumbers and other tradespeople as “essential critical infrastructure workers” as our nation responds to the threat of COVID-19.

03.17.20

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released its final rule establishing industry recognized apprenticeship programs (IRAPs) and will maintain the exclusion of construction industry from IRAPs, thereby maintaining the integrity of Registered Apprentice Programs. PHCC filed comments on the proposed rule making which supported the ultimate outcome of the rule.

03.04.20

PHCC Strategic Partner Bradford White joins industry representatives to support training and education for skilled tradespeople.

02.12.20

On Monday, February 10 the Trump administration released its proposal for funding the federal government in FY2021. Though the proposal includes an overall decrease in funding for the Departments of Education and Labor, the proposal includes increases in funding to career and technical education (CTE) and apprenticeship programs.

01.29.20

Earlier this month, PHCC members, state executives and staff were invited to the White House for an exclusive PHCC ceremony celebrating the association’s commitment to the Pledge to America’s Workers. PHCC enjoyed a private audience with the President’s senior advisors for an overview of our industry and the importance of registered apprenticeship to ensuring the continuity of the plumbing and HVAC trades.

01.29.20

Milwaukee Tool will once again expand its footprint in the United States (US) with the announcement of a new vertically integrated manufacturing plant in West Bend, WI. Located only 20 min from Milwaukee Tool’s Global Headquarters, the facility will manufacture new-to-market Hand Tools for professional electricians and utility linemen.