Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon says having a skilled workforce is key to the state’s future as a global leader in auto manufacturing.
Nixon toured a newly completed facility Monday in Liberty built by auto parts maker LMV Automotive Systems to provide needed skills like welding to its growing workforce.
“Companies like LMV understand that in a fiercely competitive worldwide economy, highly-skilled workers are vital to their success,” Nixon said.
With the expansion of its $90 million facility, the LMV space has doubled in size since last year.
The company says it expects to train hundreds of employees in specialized skills, including robotic spot and MIG welding, in the Ervin Myles Innovation and Training Center’s first year.
LMV will also partner with the Northland Center for Advanced Professional Studies to provide trade skill training for high school students.
Following a ribbon cutting, Nixon reasserted his opposition to “right-to-work” legislation, which limit the power of unions.
“I’ve been governor now for 6 and a half years,” Nixon said. “The three words I hear are ‘strong skilled workers,’ not ‘right to work.’”
Earlier this year, conservative lawmakers passed right-to-work legislation, which they said would make the state more business-friendly and lead to job growth.
Nixon vetoed the legislation, but that veto may be challenged when a special legislative session begins Wednesday.
