Truly need more H-1B visa workers?

Does America

For many years manufacturing executives have claimed that there is a “labor gap” in manufacturing jobs. David Bem (“A Mandate to Make Things,” Nov. 22 Perspectives) blames this gap on visa limitations placed on foreign-born-and-trained workers to 85,000 visas a year. He cites the efforts corporations make to increase access to “these highly skilled jobs.” But there is nothing in his piece or in other written claims that I’ve read that explain exactly what it is that these foreign H1B workers know that U.S.born workers don’t.

Is it really the case that the current STEM programs, after years of implementation, aren’t teaching the right material? If it is true, then it is time for these corporations to share what knowledge is missing in science, technology, engineering and math education.

Can it really be true that there aren’t enough U.S.born-and-trained workers to fill these jobs by now? I don’t think so. I think there are sufficient numbers but corporations would rather hire foreign workers because they accept lower pay, will work over extended hours and don’t expect a bonus if one of their innovations is successful. This is a good thing for the executives — more money in their pockets for increased salary and maybe an extra bonus.

The time to reject this propaganda is overdue. More information is needed before any increase in work visas is proposed. Perhaps investigative journalists could research what are the specific courses needed, what level of education determines a “skilled worker,” which schools are preparing these workers and which corporations hire more H-1B workers than U.S.-bornand-trained workers.

Our “newly elected leaders,” referred to by Mr. Bem must have all the facts to evaluate before any increase in visas is proposed. Maybe we’ll find out that there are enough already. JULIE MALLOY

Squirrel Hill