The New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) held a Joint Education & Workforce Development & Employment & Labor Policy Committee Meeting on Apr. 17, featuring several guest speakers who addressed key issues affecting employers and workers in the state.
The meeting covered important topics such as workforce development initiatives, business registration processes, legislative updates, and efforts to address labor shortages. These discussions are significant as they impact both the economic environment for businesses and employment opportunities for residents.
Scott Altieri, New Jersey Director of Labor, discussed major priorities under Governor Mikie Sherill’s administration. “There’s been a couple big initiatives by the governor and the team on fighting for workers. [One example] is the gateway tunnel project. [Governor Mikie Sherill] has taken the federal administration to court. I bring this up because it’s not just 1000s of union jobs, but it’s also a huge, huge economic impact for the region…this is a vital, vital project.” He added that fully funding pension payments remains an important priority: “The governor is committed to fully making a pension payment…It’s important for the state. Fiscally, we are paying a lot more than we should have been if past administrations have made those pension payments. So that is a major priority as we talk about the promise to our public sector workforce.”
Stefani Thachik from the Office of Higher Education spoke about new opportunities through Workforce Pell programs: “Workforce Pell is a tremendous opportunity that nationally we’ve been talking about for over 10 years…This is the first time Federal Pell dollars have supported short term career-oriented training programs…For employers, it can help current employees to upskill…and accelerate growth in our in demand industries.” Thomas Hilliard from NJ Department of Labor noted: “The workforce Pell was created through the one big, beautiful Bill act…there is an intense focus on connecting employers to the labor market and ensuring that students are entering programs that provide them with high quality jobs after completion.”
Inge Pratt from Treasury’s Division of Revenue explained business registration requirements: “If you want to have a business like an entity…you will receive a business registration certificate…most governmental agencies need that in order to do business with you…After you obtain your BRC, you can apply for different types of business certifications…all of these certifications are at no cost.”
Jack Kelly gave updates on legislative developments regarding independent contractor rules and family leave insurance expansion while Althea Ford highlighted legislation recognizing accounting as STEM education—an effort aimed at easing workforce shortages in accounting fields.
According to the official website, NJBIA serves as one of America’s largest statewide employer associations representing private-sector employers throughout New Jersey across various sectors. The association advances competitive excellence among its members by providing advocacy services along with practical information designed to foster financial success.NJBIA also facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities and academic institutions while offering cost-saving benefits.Michele Siekerka serves as president and chief executive officer.
As policymakers continue discussions on legislative changes affecting labor laws and educational pathways—including proposed reforms around school district consolidation—the outcomes may influence future employment trends across New Jersey.
