U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer continued her America at Work listening tour this week, visiting Long Island, New York, and Edison, New Jersey. During her visits, she met with apprentices and observed hands-on training in various trades such as welding, framing, and acoustical work.
“Our nation’s skilled workforce is thriving under President Trump’s leadership, with thousands of new jobs created on Long Island and in New Jersey since he took office,” stated Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. She emphasized the impact of investments in training programs that drive local economic growth and empower individuals to improve their lives. She expressed gratitude to Congressmen Garbarino, LaLota, and Kean for hosting her on the tour.
Rep. Andrew Garbarino highlighted Long Island's role in workforce innovation during the visit. He noted the strong partnerships between labor, education, and government that provide pathways to good-paying jobs for local workers. “From apprentices learning the trades at Local 290 to advanced technical training programs at Suffolk County Community College,” said Garbarino, “these initiatives are not only equipping our workforce with the skills they need – they’re also strengthening Long Island’s economic future.”
Rep. Nick LaLota commented on Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Suffolk County and engagement with blue-collar labor leaders on Long Island. He pointed out the Republican Party's commitment to supporting business growth and hardworking Americans through fair wages and safe working conditions.
During her time in New York, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited the Northeast Regional Council of Carpenters Local 290 Training Center in Hauppauge alongside Reps. Garbarino and LaLota. They also toured Suffolk County Community College’s National Offshore Wind Training Center in Brentwood.
In Edison, New Jersey, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited the Northeast Carpenters Training Center with Rep. Tom Kean Jr., emphasizing high-quality workforce development programs.
“From construction and manufacturing to transportation infrastructure,” said Rep. Kean Jr., “everything built in New Jersey is built by the hands of dedicated tradesmen and women.” He appreciated Secretary Chavez-DeRemer's leadership during her visit.
Secretary Chavez-DeRemer's America at Work listening tour began in early April to gather feedback from American workers for policymakers in Washington. Recent stops have included Colorado and Arizona.
