Quinn: More Exports, Modern Workforce 'Critical' to Illinois Economy

Gov. Pat Quinn was in Mokena Thursday to talk about his plans for doubling Illinois' exports by 2015, investing in the state's workforce and improving its infrastructure, according to a press release.

Quinn spoke to the President’s Export Council Subcommittee on Workforce Readiness at .

“Increased exports and a modern workforce are critical to our efforts to boost Illinois’ economy and create jobs,” Quinn said. “Through historic investment in a skilled workforce and 21st century transportation infrastructure, we are ensuring that Illinois’ businesses have the tools they need to grow and succeed in the global marketplace.”

Quinn's recent efforts to boost the state's economy include a trade agreement with the Canadian province of Manitoba,the Employer Training Investment Program that reimburses companies for the cost of employee training and the $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program that is expected will create more than 400,000 jobs over six years.

The President's Export Council is the principal national advisory committee on international trade. 

Listen to Quinn's address on the governor's website.