Here we go again: another company complaining about a lack of skilled workers in Maine. (I’m referring to the recent article about the steel company wanting to hire but being unable to find people who can read a ruler.)

Many years ago, I went to work as a sprinkler pipefitter right out of high school. I had no skills, but the company gave me on-the-job training. Most young people back then who were not college material went to work at paper mills or became plumbers, carpenters, etc. They were all trained on the job.

I realize that today’s jobs are much more high-tech. But companies today want someone else to train their employees – the worker, the worker’s family, the public or the state.

My suggestion would be for these employers to use some of their corporate profits. Go to area high schools, find students who can read a ruler but are unable to afford trade schools or colleges, and hire and train them. Seems that it would be well worth the investment.

Terrence Farrin

South Portland

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