Members of the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance met at the Sanford Regional Technical Center this afternoon to talk about how Maine's Career and Technical Education schools could support our Nation's mission. Like many employment categories in the State of Maine, more workers are leaving the workforce than workers entering it. The Defense Industry is not immune to being short workers. The Submarine, Maritime, and Defense Industrial Base have tremendous needs for employers over the next several years and between their needs and supply chain needs, there is a need for upwards of 250,000 employees over the next 10 years. This means engaging students not only today but our middle school and elementary students early and often to get them excited about the opportunities in front of them.
The group talked about opportunities for the future including educational support, manufacturing competitions, and funding possibilities. Replicating models currently in use in southern New England, this new "Advisory" board will meet three times a year. To kick off today's meeting, Director Petermann spent a few minutes welcoming the guests and talking about the Sanford Regional Technical Center. Several Directors from southern Maine CTE schools were seated at the table and shared their perspectives and ideas. This was a great example of Maine's CTE schools and Industry working hand in hand to support the future workforce in Maine and in the defense industry.