As our country continues to grapple with the effects of globalization and automation and the challenges of the 21st Century economy, putting people back to work continues to be my number one priority as a member of Congress. We need fundamental changes that result in innovative, broad-reaching legislation that will grow the economy, give our children the skills they need to succeed in the future, reward businesses that keep jobs in the United States, create a level playing field for American workers in the global market.

There is no doubt we must do more to help educate the next generation for careers in this changing economy. Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education helps drive our nation's economic train and ensures our children will be prepared to lead the world in innovation and entrepreneurship.

We need an immediate investment and focus in putting Americans back to work – in good paying jobs that will help grow the economy and strengthen our communities. Around the country our crumbling roads, bridges, railroads and sewer systems urgently need improvements and repairs. A long-term robust investment in our country's infrastructure, including upgrading our country's broadband network and electrical grid, can help put American's back to work.

We cannot move our country forward, however, without growing our manufacturing sector. Manufacturing is a vital American industry and the backbone of our country, when manufacturers are given the tools they need to compete in a global marketplace, Americans prosper and our nation becomes stronger.

We have begun to witness the massive economic boon that transitioning to a clean-energy economy can bring throughout the country. In Ohio alone over 100,000 jobs are supported by the clean energy sector, and that number is growing fast – by a rate of 4.9 percent. The clean energy economy is growing in every Midwestern state, and smart government investment in clean energy can help grow it even faster.