California is spending $6 million on a campaign to revive the reputation of vocational education, and $200 million to improve the delivery of it.
Caring for workers
With health insurance one of an employer's top costs — if not the top cost — businesses are constantly on the lookout for ways to save money. For some businesses, the answer may seem counterintuitive — expanding their medical offerings available through onsite employee clinics. During a recent three-month span, the Kimberly Area School District estimates it saved more than $30,000 — or 53 percent — in health care costs with employees using the district's clinic instead of them seeing their regular health providers, says Dawn Ludwig, director of human resources for KASD.
Workplace warriors
Jake Roloff, a decorated U.S. Marine veteran, transitioned from military service to working in the molding department at Waupaca Foundry's gray iron foundry in Waupaca. Veterans and active-duty military personnel make up 10 percent of the company's workforce.