; Whereas the more than 550 workforce development boards and 2,500 American Job Centers are a driving force behind growing regional economies by providing training, resources, and assistance to workers who aim to compete in the 21st century economy; Whereas ongoing State and local implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.) provides unprecedented opportunities to develop the skills of workers in the United States through access to effective workforce education and training, including the development and delivery of proven strategies such as sector partnerships, career pathways, integrated education and training, work-based learning models, and paid internships; Whereas, in 2016, programs authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.)— (1) served more than 7,000,000 young people and adults; (2) exceeded employment targets across all programs; and (3) helped more than 1,300,000 individuals, including English language learners, gain skills and credentials to help the individuals succeed in the labor market; Whereas State programs established under the Wagner-Peyser Act ( 29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.)— (1) ensured that more than 5,400,000 unemployed workers, including more than 800,000 veterans, had access to career services through American Job Centers in 2016; and (2) are a foundational part of the workforce development system; Whereas workforce development programs will play a critical role in addressing the expected 2,000,000 unfilled manufacturing jobs over the next decade; Whereas community colleges and other workforce development training providers across the United States are well-situated— (1) to train the next generation of workers in the United States; and (2) to address the educational challenges created by emerging industries and technological advancements