Deaton Unveils ‘Skills First Act’ to Deliver Debt-Free Trades to Massachusetts’ Non-College Majority
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2026
Press Contact:
Vincent Errichetti
(617) 922-1824
Press@johndeatonforsenate.com
Deaton Unveils ‘Skills First Act’ to Deliver Debt-Free Trades to Massachusetts’ Non-College Majority
BOSTON, MA – Today, U.S. Senate candidate John Deaton announced the Skills First Act, a bold new initiative designed to deliver debt-free, high-paying career pathways for Massachusetts’ non-college majority.
“Massachusetts families are struggling with the cost of living, and good-paying jobs are at the heart of that challenge,” said Deaton, a Marine Corps veteran and small business owner. “While my opponent has spent 50 years in Washington pushing four-year college for everyone, I believe opportunity shouldn’t require a degree. The Skills First Act creates fast-track, debt-free pathways into the trades and technical careers that Massachusetts employers desperately need.”
The Skills First Act would establish a National Apprenticeship Accelerator Program that partners with unions, businesses, and trade schools to dramatically expand apprenticeship opportunities. The legislation includes:
- Targeted tax credits to encourage companies to create new apprenticeship slots
- A “Trade School GI Bill” offering low or no-interest loans and grants for tuition, tools, and training
- Strong incentives for high schools to offer on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs
- Focused pathways for 18- to 30-year-olds to enter high-demand fields including welding, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, heavy equipment operation, clean energy technology, pipefitting, diesel mechanics, robotics, and more — all in just 12 to 18 months.
“College is optional. Opportunity is not,” Deaton added. “Young people should be able to earn strong wages without drowning in student debt. The Skills First Act puts Massachusetts workers first by connecting them to real careers that don’t require a four-year degree.”
Deaton’s proposal is part of his broader “Jobs and Economy” platform and directly contrasts with incumbent Senator Ed Markey’s long record in Washington.
The full proposal is available on Deaton’s campaign website.
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JOHN DEATON will fight for what is right.
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