Representative Mannion (NY-22) Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Immersive Technology Bill to Modernize Workforce Training and Prepare American Workers for Jobs of The Future

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today introduced the bipartisan and bicameral Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act to expand the use of virtual reality, augmented reality, and simulation-based training tools to strengthen workforce development programs and better prepare American workers for in-demand, high-skill jobs. 

Immersive training tools allow workers to practice complex tasks, earn credentials, and build confidence before stepping onto a job site or factory floor—reducing barriers to entry, improving retention, and shortening the path from training to employment.   

Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) said, “Immersive training tools will equip workers and job seekers in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley with the skills they need to land good-paying jobs and grow in their careers. Demand for skilled workers in the region is growing thanks to the generational opportunity from Micron, the semiconductor supply chain, and our region’s strong manufacturing heritage, and my bipartisan legislation will embrace technology to help train workers quickly, effectively, and at the scale needed to meet the moment.” 

The Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act:   

The legislation builds on Representative Mannion’s record in Congress and the New York State Senate in advancing workforce training initiatives, including support for the ON-RAMP program, the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) apprenticeship model, and partnerships that connect K-12 and higher education, labor, and employers to good paying jobs. Those efforts are now helping position the region to fill jobs in advanced manufacturing, health care, and other industries.  

Mannion’s bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Representative Gabe Evans (CO-8) and mirrors bipartisan Senate legislation introduced by Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE) and Katie Britt (AL).  

Representative Gabe Evans (CO-8) said, “Colorado District 8 is a proven leader in artificial intelligence and technology-driven job creation. I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act to address workforce shortages by expanding access to innovative technical education and training. By investing in the skills of American workers and partnering with industry, we can prepare people for the jobs of the future and ensure the United States remains the global leader in innovation.” 

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE) said, “As Delaware’s former Secretary of Labor, I have spent my career working to empower and prepare the workforce of today and tomorrow. We must be forward thinking as we confront both longstanding and developing workforce challenges. Immersive technology, such as virtual reality, can be a powerful tool for training and career visualization. I am proud to have introduced the Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act alongside Senator Britt and grateful to Representatives Mannion and Evans for their leadership in the House. Together, we will support the development of innovative skills training programs that utilize this technology and, most importantly, connect Americans with jobs.” 

The Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act is endorsed by: State University of New York (SUNY), The Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), Advance CTE, American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), Association of Community College Trustees (AACT), CareerViewXR, CM&D, HTC VIVE, Jobs for the Future (JFF), National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), Oberon Technologies, Qualcomm, SIMVANA, Transfr, XR Association (XRA). 

# # #