https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-22-46A1.pdf
Media Contact:
Paloma Perez
[email protected]
For Immediate Release
FCC, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION,
AND NTIA ANNOUNCE MEMBERS OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS
WORKFORCE WORKING GROUP–
WASHINGTON, January 14, 2022—The Federal Communications Commission alongside the
Department of Labor, Department of Education, and NTIA today announced the members of a
cross-agency working group that will collaborate to identify the current and future needs of the
telecommunications industry workforce, including the safety of that workforce. In accordance
with the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel
appointed five members, Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh appointed four members, Secretary
of Education Miguel Cardona appointed two members, and Evelyn Remaley, performing the
non-exclusive functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Communications and Information, appointed one member to the new interagency working
group.
“A big part of ensuring modern communications reaches everyone, everywhere is also making
sure that we’re properly investing in the workforce to support that mission,” said FCC
Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “I look forward to this working group’s
recommendations to ensure that all parts of the workforce—from the next generation of
innovators reimagining what it means to stay connected in today’s digital age to the tower
climbers maintaining the necessary physical infrastructure—are accounted for, properly
invested in, and safe. Broadband for all should serve all of us.”
“As our nation builds out and expands access to critical communication tools for people across
the country, it is imperative that we not lose sight of the workers carrying out this noble
mission,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “We hope that the Task Force
strongly considers how improved job quality and equity can enhance recruitment in workforce
development programs in this industry. The members we have appointed for this group
includes people who will be laser focused on ensuring good jobs that are safe for those who
working to bring the vision of a more connected society into reality.”
“The Department is strongly committed to ensuring that all Americans equally can access the
benefits of broadband and digital technology for learning, career and technical preparation, and
professional advancement,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “Ensuring
that our schools and institutions of higher education are core partners in developing the
telecommunications workforce of tomorrow will be critical to reaching 100 percent nationwide
broadband coverage.”
“Bringing broadband to every corner of the United States means we need telecom workers with
the skills to install networks in challenging areas,” said Evelyn Remaley, who is performing
the non-exclusive functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Communications and Information. “Today’s announcement and our collaboration across the
Biden Administration are helping to ensure we have the workforce we need to safely bring
connectivity to all.”
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act directed the FCC Chair to work in partnership with
the Secretary of Labor to establish an interagency working group that will ultimately prepare a
report to Congress on its recommendations to address the needs of the telecommunications
industry, including the safety of its workforce. This report must be delivered to Congress by
January 14, 2023.
The Public Notice detailing the focus of the Telecommunications Workforce Working Group
