Governor Gianforte Recognizes Financial Literacy Month

Highlights strength of Montana's financial services sector

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today proclaimed April as Financial Literacy Month in Montana and highlighted the findings of a recent Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) analysis that shows the strength of the financial and professional services sector to meet workforce needs.

"As entrepreneurship and innovation expands in Montana, the Financial and Professional Services sector is helping to create good-paying careers for Montanans in every corner of our state," Gov. Gianforte said. "Through 406 JOBS, we are working to make sure more Montanans can access the skills, training and education they need to move into these high-wage jobs and support their families here at home."

According to DLI, employment in financial and professional services has grown faster than overall statewide employment for the past decade with more than 6,700 job openings expected each year over the next ten years. The report also identifies approximately one-third of projected openings in professional services will require a certification or college degree.

To support financial literacy education and workforce training in Montana schools, Gov. Gianforte signed into law House Bill 535, sponsored by Rep. Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls, in 2023 to affirm the state's expectation that K-12 public schools provide instruction in financial literacy.

Since taking office, Gov. Gianforte has also prioritized strengthening Montana's workforce by expanding access to apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities. Last year, the governor launched the 406 JOBS initiative to unify the state's workforce system and better connect Montanans with in-demand careers.

406 JOBS identifies 12 priorities across the workforce system, including private and public sectors, to drive innovation, remove red tape, and foster collaboration between state agencies. Key initiatives focus on increasing Registered Apprenticeship Pathways, preparing the workforce for artificial intelligence and automation opportunities, and establishing local sector partnerships in high demand sectors.

You can view the DLI analysis on the financial and professional services sector here and Gov. Gianforte's proclamation for Financial Literacy Month here .

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