Governor Gianforte Highlights Strength of Montana Workforce

Continuing his 56 County Tour last week in Broadwater and Jefferson counties, Governor Greg Gianforte highlighted the strength of Montana's workforce, meeting with small business owners and employees, first responders, medical professionals, and tradesmen.

Beginning his afternoon in Townsend, the governor grabbed lunch at Full Belli Deli, owned and operated by Dakota and Heidi Bingham. There, the governor had lunch, met Heidi, and thanked her and her employees for adding greater vibrancy to the community.

"Folks in food service don't just make delicious meals, they nourish their neighbors and gather families. They add tremendous value to our communities. I was glad to meet with a few of them today, and enjoyed a delicious lunch," Gov. Gianforte said.

The governor then stopped by the Broadwater County Sheriff's office to thank three first responders who were recently recognized by the American Legion as Broadwater County's firefighter, EMT, and law enforcement officer of the year.

"Representing the best of Montana, Vivian, Angie, and Tony are dedicated to their community and serving others," Gov. Gianforte said. "To our first responders who suit up each day and put their lives on the line to keep their communities safe, thank you, and know we stand with you."

In Townsend, the governor also toured Billings Clinic Broadwater's new clinic and rehabilitation space and expanded emergency room. The new clinic space provides nine exam rooms to allow for additional providers and outreach services.

The expanded emergency room, expected to open soon, will ensure more patients can receive critical care around the clock in Townsend, rather than having to travel elsewhere for emergency care.

Finally, the governor traveled to Jefferson County to meet with apprentices from McLean Plumbing and Heating, an employer sponsor participating in Montana's Registered Apprenticeship Program.

"Recognizing a four-year college degree isn't for everyone, we're expanding access to apprenticeships and creating more good-paying careers," Gov. Gianforte said. "Ensuring Montanans have better access to apprenticeships and trades education empowers our workers with in-demand skills, develops our workforce, and creates better-paying Montana jobs."

Montana's Registered Apprenticeship program, administered by the Department of Labor & Industry, enables workers to receive paid, supervised, on-the-job training in more than 100 different occupations across Montana.

In August, the governor announced the number of new apprenticeships in Montana this year is on track to surpass the number for 2018, 2019, and 2020 combined.

While on the jobsite today, the governor heard from apprentices on why they're pursuing a good-paying career in the trades, including Creighton Kuhl.

"To find an avenue where I can work, learn, and start a great career is awesome. And it was the best option for me personally," Kuhl said.

After the visit, the governor added, "Montanans have more opportunities than ever before to learn a new skill and secure a great-paying job in an in-demand field."

Montanans can learn more about Montana's Registered Apprenticeship Program by visiting apprenticeship.mt.gov.