It wants to encourage the creation and adoption of a national system of skill standards that will enhance the ability of the United States' workforce to compete effectively in the rapidly changing global economy. This is the first time that business, labor, educators, civil rights, community-based organizations have come together in this setting to develop a national skill standards system. The NSSB was created by an Act of Congress through the National Skill Standards Act of 1994, which established this organization with the prime objective of creating a voluntary system of national skill standards to improve the global competitiveness of the nation's workforce. Skill standards are the performance specifications that identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities that an individual needs to succeed in the workplace. They are critical to improving the skills of employees, will raise the standards of living in this country, and will improve the competitiveness of the U.S. economy.
Workplaces change constantly.
Jobs that used to be relatively simple now require high performance work processes and enhanced skills in order to compete globally. Because skill standards reflect these changing realities, standards are essential in helping applicants and employees enjoy greater career opportunities and economic security. While the United States economy remains the powerhouse of the world, other countries are catching up. Better training and education are two main reasons. Highly skilled, better-educated and highly mobile workers are critical to maintaining America's prosperity.