Bryan outlined workforce plan at two Virgin Islands summits

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. outlined his administration’s workforce-development agenda during two daylong summits held in the territory’s two districts, according to a Government House statement published on Nov. 14, 2019.

At the first meeting, held on St. Thomas on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019, Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy said the territory’s labor-market data showed a disconnect among workers, educators and employers. The statement said business leaders and nonprofit representatives attended meetings in both districts.

Bryan said he planned to ask the Legislature to rename the Virgin Islands Department of Labor as the Department of Workforce Development and Security. He described the effort as part of a broader "Cradle to Careers" approach to workforce development.

According to the statement, Bryan’s proposals included investment in early-childhood education, university programs aligned with growth sectors, charter programs for gifted students, broader internet access for students and expanded use of e-learning and public computer centers.

The statement also said Bryan proposed steps aimed at expanding the workforce and economy, including development of a financial sector tied to a University of the Virgin Islands School of Business, use of the Research and Technology Park, creation of a cargo shipping hub on St. Croix, expansion of refinery operations, upgrades to container transshipment and diversification of the tourism market.

Bryan also identified several obstacles to workforce growth, including energy costs, labor-force availability, access to capital, local investment and the territory’s status and representation under federal law.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-describes-clear-path-toward-creating-sustainable-workforce-in-the-usvi/