Olszewski, Williams Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Small Business Workforce Development
February 27, 2025
(Washington, DC) — Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), member of the House Committee on Small Business, yesterday joined Committee Chairman Roger Williams (TX-25) in introducing the Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill will increase participation in the technical fields and help Career and Technical Education (CTE) graduates transition into the workforce.
“Career and technical education institute graduates have the skills and dedication that small businesses in Maryland and across the country need,” said Congressman Olszewski. “The Supporting Small Business Career and Technical Education Act will connect hardworking students to good-paying jobs in healthcare, manufacturing, and beyond, helping small businesses and our economy thrive. I’m proud to join Chairman Williams in co-leading this bipartisan effort to help Marylanders build strong careers.”
“As we enter the Golden Age of America, Main Street is in critical need of skilled workers,” said Congressman Williams. “Plumbers, electricians, mechanics, and countless others are the backbone of our economy, and without them, the American people would not have the critical goods and services that we often take for granted. I am proud to lead the charge in encouraging more young people to pursue valuable CTE professions and assist graduates in translating their skills into the workforce.”
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a variety of services to help educate and counsel small businesses, including Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and Women’s Business Centers (WBCs). The Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act would require SBDCs and WBCs to provide information to small businesses about hiring career and technical education graduates, and provide graduates with information on how to launch a small business.
As Baltimore County Executive, workforce development and Career and Technical Education (CTE) were top priorities for Olszewski. He helped implement a $3.3 billion plan to improve schools with significant investments in CTE, and helped secure the Public Health Pathways Program connecting underserved Baltimore communities with high-demand nursing jobs. Olszewski also oversaw the Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development, strengthening opportunities for local workers.
This legislation is endorsed by SkillsUSA, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), and Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, all of which support workforce development efforts across the nation.
The Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act was introduced during Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, celebrated every February to honor CTE workers.
Read the full text of the legislation here.
###