Decreasing the skills gap has been my #1 priority since taking office which is why I am excited for the second round of the $1.2M Workforce Equity Initiative grant, an Illinois Legislative Black Caucus initiative. I particularly want to applaud Rock Valley College. I truly believe that the commitment from Rock Valley College has been the best in the state. Thank you for being a strong partner in providing short-term training that leads to livable wages for people, especially black people, in our community. Investing in people's skills enhances our workforce, brings new jobs to our community, and transforms Rockford.