Connecticut seeks more training for manufacturing workers, but economists say it's unnecessary
A low-cost state loan to train manufacturing workers is drawing support from business groups that say Connecticut is ill-prepared for an increase in aerospace and other high-tech factory work.
Some economists dismiss the complaint as overblown.
Last week, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced a 10-year $711,533 loan at 2 percent interest to help Berlin machining company TOMZ Corp. expand and build a training center at its site.
Malloy says the state is acting to counter a shortage of skilled manufacturing workers.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor Paul Osterman says companies report spot shortages of manufacturing workers, but it's not broad-based or pervasive.
Economist Peter Gioia (JOY'-uh) says rising demand for aerospace is stoking state efforts to train more workers.