On May 5, as a part of the America at Work tour, U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer and U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz., visited an ABC member jobsite and participated in an Arizona Builders Alliance-led roundtable discussion in Tucson, Arizona.

The group toured ABC member Chasse Building Group’s project to build Pima Community College’s Building and Construction Technologies training center as well as Pima’s other programs that train students in automotive technology and advanced manufacturing.

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Rep. Ciscomani then joined the Arizona Builders Alliance in a roundtable discussion focused on workforce shortages in the construction industry and policies that reduce unnecessary red tape to empower workers and businesses. ABA members also emphasized ABA members’ commitment to safety and spoke about the importance of legal pathways for workers in the construction trades, such as expanding visa programs.

“With strong growth in the construction industry thanks to President Trump’s America First policies, it’s critical the DOL continues our mission to upskill American workers by partnering with local leaders to fill these in-demand jobs,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “I enjoyed learning firsthand how educators and businesses in Tucson have developed pathways to successful, good-paying careers in construction and building trades.

“I am incredibly grateful to my good friend, Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, for her leadership, commitment to empowering our workers, support for workforce development efforts and for taking the time to meet with educators, business leaders and employees in my district,” said Ciscomani. “Secretary Chavez-DeRemer is a fantastic partner, and I look forward to continuing working with her to deliver on our promise to America’s workforce.”