As we travel throughout the state for listening sessions as part of our 2020 Vision Project, one of the topics that comes up frequently as being important to you is reliable access to broadband service, especially in rural areas of Wisconsin.

We know access to broadband internet is crucial for Wisconsin’s economy – it makes it easier for employers to find the workers they need to fill open positions, encourages our businesses to grow, and improves the quality of education for our students.  

With this in mind, we created the Broadband Expansion Grant program in 2011 and last year, we worked with the Legislature to triple the amount of funding for these grants. 

This week, we announced the launch of the Broadband Forward! Community Certification Program, which jump-starts the broadband expansion process in Wisconsin by eliminating obstacles to infrastructure improvements and streamlining the process for approving local broadband investment.

The most important thing we can do to ensure a strong future for Wisconsin tomorrow is to focus on building a capable, skilled workforce today.

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to visit Benvenuto’s Italian Grille in Platteville to meet with one of their employees who has directly benefitted from a Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) program.

To encourage and promote employment opportunities for Wisconsin citizens with disabilities, we proclaimed 2014 as the Year of A Better Bottom Line. Shortly after their opening three and a half years ago, Benvenuto’s decided to partner with DVR and a local social services group.

They recognize that individuals with disabilities have a unique set of abilities and strengths that not only benefit their restaurant but the Platteville community as well. They’ve since hired three individuals utilizing DVR programs and services.

Since its formation, more than 16,000 job-seekers with disabilities have actively engaged with DVR in an Individualized Plan for Employment. In 2015, 4,875 individuals with disabilities successfully reached their employment goals and entered the workforce – the highest rate in more than 15 years.

Providing individuals with disabilities the training and resources they need to succeed in our workforce allows them to earn a competitive wage, gain confidence, and develop marketable skills in the process. That’s a win-win!