As part of 2012-2013 budget summary, President Barack Obama proposed spending $8 billion on job training programs at community colleges over the next three years, according to Inside Higher Ed.

The funds will build on current job training programs, allow community colleges to train workers in technical and manufacturing fields and encourage partnerships between businesses and schools.

“We built this budget around the idea that our country has always done best when everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share and everyone plays by the same rules,” Obama said in his budget message to Congress on Feb. 13.

California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott praised Obama’s decision to help train and employ workers, citing that California’s community colleges serve 2.6 million students annually.

“This proposal, if enacted, will help grow and strengthen statewide and local business partnerships,” Scott said in a press release.

“We are well positioned to be a key player in working with the federal government to stimulate our nation’s economic recovery by preparing a skilled workforce that meets the needs of a changing job market,” he said.

Cosumnes River College President Deborah Travis also applauded Obama’s proposal.

“I am grateful that President Obama understands and supports the importance of community colleges in creating a strong workforce,” Travis said in an email.

“Our community partners tell us they need a strong workforce and CRC is doing all we can to educate and train students that can compete in the global workplace and effectively contribute to our community,” she said.