WASHINGTON DC – Last week, President Donald Trump signed an executive order committing to expand workforce development and vocational training. This week, the president plans to visit both Granite City Illinois and Dubuque Iowa this Thursday, the White House announced Sunday evening. Trump's visit coordinates with this week's White House emphasis will be on "Made in America" products, with a gathering of American manufacturers and producers from all 50 states in DC Monday.
At least two Illinois manufacturers will be represented at the White House emphasis: Klein Tool of Lincolnshire and Atlas Toolworks of Lyons, IL.
The President held a similar assembly a year ago to emphasize U.S. made products. In 2017, Illinois-based Caterpillar was invited to display some of their products on the White House lawn.
Last year, the White House emphasized President Trump taking "decisive action to free America’s energy potential and create jobs in areas that need them the most. He has approved the construction of new energy pipelines, allowed for the exportation of coal, increased liquefied natural gas exports, and withdrew from the Paris Climate Accord."
Last week's executive order establishes the National Council for the American Worker. The Council will develop a national campaign to raise awareness of workforce issues, such as the urgency of the skills crisis and the importance of STEM education. It will also create a plan for recognizing companies that demonstrate excellence in workplace education, retraining, and workforce investment.
Trump is expected to emphasize US Steel's re-opening of its Granite City plant and its hiring of hundreds during Thursday's visit.
Update:
The Star Reguster Tribube is now reporting Rauner will NOT attend the Trump visit to Granite City.
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