MENU
SEARCHTomorrow's Workforce Coalition is a group of associations advocating for economic development policy that would strengthen the transportation workforce.
Currently, 529 plans can only be used for college, graduate, or professional degrees; education programs from Title IV accredited institutions; registered apprenticeships; and certain K-12 tuition and student loan repayments.
Photo: Canva
WTS International announced it has joined the Tomorrow's Workforce Coalition, a group of associations advocating for economic development policy that would strengthen the transportation workforce.
The bipartisan, bicameral Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act (H.R. 2171 / S. 905) would expand eligible uses of tax-favorable “529” savings plans to cover costs associated with workforce training and credentialing programs.
The legislation would also enable 529 plan beneficiaries to use their funds to pay for examinations necessary to obtain and maintain recognized private professional certifications and other credentials.
Now, only costs related to attending colleges, universities, vocational schools, registered apprenticeship programs, K-12 private tuition, or other post-secondary institutions are eligible for 529 expenses.
These programs could encourage more people to enter the transportation sector; filling important roles in all modes and frontline positions.
Currently, 529 plans can only be used for college, graduate, or professional degrees; education programs from Title IV accredited institutions; registered apprenticeships; and certain K-12 tuition and student loan repayments.
Under the current regulations, 529 plan beneficiaries cannot use funds to obtain or maintain recognized postsecondary credentials, including professional certifications, licenses, and other valuable training or credentials.
“WTS International supports a diverse range of educational, training, and certification opportunities, and the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act is a practical policy decision to ensure a robust, equitable, and diverse future of the transportation sector,” said Sara Stickler, president/CEO, WTS International. “The Coalition supports the use of 529 account funds to cover the diverse types of opportunities needed for future industry professionals to serve in vital roles building and maintaining the most critical transportation infrastructure in our communities.”
The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.
Read More →
The service is a flexible, reservation-based transit service designed to close the first- and last-mile gaps and connect riders to employment for just $5 per day.
Read More →
Parsons wins the $60M Claremont Extension design contract as the Foothill Gold Line board reaffirms leadership during a pivotal project phase.
Read More →
The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.
Read More →
The agency ranked top five among mid-sized U.S. transit systems, defined as agencies with 15 million to 50 million annual trips.
Read More →
The new program rewards B2B audience readers for engaging with trusted content and suppliers, earning them points toward events, travel, and more.
Read More →
The subway system saw increases across all key metrics, with 62% of subway riders reporting they feel satisfied with the system overall.
Read More →
The agreement provides competitive wages and reflects strong labor-management collaboration, positive working relationships, and a shared commitment to building a world-class transit system for the community, said RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins.
Read More →
The new contract for Keolis and VRE will commence in July 2026, with the potential to expand to 15 years.
Read More →
The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.
Read More →
