U.S. Needs to Effectively Compete in High-technology Markets

Book excerpt: This document records the oral and written testimony of witnesses at a Congressional hearing on U.S. needs for training in high technology areas. Testimony was given by local officials, corporate officials, a union representative, and two professors of engineering from universities in Indiana. Testimony centered on jobs and job training, reforming the education system, and international competition. Witnesses testified that government regulations that cause excess paperwork and prevent industries from being competitive should be changed. They also talked about the burdensome health care system that saps productivity with ever-rising costs as well as the need for workers to learn new skills. Skills in life management, conflict resolution, cooperation, and problem solving were advocated for workers. Witnesses also advocated more cooperative problem solving and strategizing by the various sectors of the economy. (KC)