This is a major step. We are working to continue investments to create new jobs, so we can make short-term job growth into a long running growth.

The whole work force development system is shifting from just trying to get people jobs to providing the information for people to get training [or] embark on a career in the future.

Philadelphia work force investment boards and the businesses down there have been very involved in the process and the work force training grants and industry partnerships. All of the counties around the state have been very involved.

That has been one of the most significant changes in our work force development program in the last three years.

They are happening concurrently and that's the way it needs to happen. We need to be boosting the skills of our workers at the same time we are preparing our young workers.

There were a number of concerns raised by state and local elected officials. In meeting with them and local Workforce Investment Board leaders, the decision was made to continue the services.