(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- President Barack Obama wants $8 billion to create a fund that encourages partnerships between community colleges and businesses. During a recent stop on her statewide jobs tour, Sen. Kay Hagan said it is critical for businesses and community colleges to work together.

"Industry says we need these skills for our jobs and then we will partner with the community college to be sure that they have the equipment necessary and the expertise to teach it," said Hagan.  The Senator made these comments when she recently visited Wake Technical Community College as part of her statewide jobs tour.

The $8 billion initiative being proposed by President Obama is part of his 2013 budget.