A Republican candidate for state representative says a four-year university is not required for career success.
During a tour of G-3 Machining in Bloomington, Regan Deering said the social conversation on that point had already begun.
"After high school, not what college are you going to, but what are your next plans to open the door to think trades and labor are a needed skillset and a great career opportunity," said Deering, who is running in the 88th Illinois House District.
Deering said there are ways to close a generational gap in the supply of skilled manufacturing workers.
"Finding scholarships. An entry-level machinist is a minimum of $500 to get your tool cart going. Is that a barrier? How can we start to have those conversations," said Deering.
Housing
Deering acknowledged the housing shortage is a statewide issue, not just one in Bloomington-Normal. She offered no specifics in an answer to a reporter's question about state policies to address the housing shortage.
"Those are conversations we need to have with city leaders and state leaders as well," she said.
Among other tools, Bloomington-Normal officials have proposed a state and local municipal partnership to buy down interest rates and make residential housing construction projects easier to finance.
"Sounds like a great idea. Obviously, those interest rates are one of the largest limiting factors right now," said Deering.
The 88th House District stretches from Decatur to Lexington and includes part of the east side of the Twin Cities. It strongly favors Republicans, and the State Board of Elections has no Democratic candidate on file for the November contest.
Deering, who topped McLean County Board member Chuck Erickson in the primary, said she will attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week to "listen and learn."
