US Labor Department Allocates $98M for Youth Education and Job Training
The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for young Americans. The department allocated $98 million for YouthBuild, a program designed to establish pre-apprenticeship programs in various high-demand industries.
Funding Focus and Affected Industries
This significant funding will target sectors such as:
- Construction
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that it will create pathways to success for youth by providing hands-on experience in these critical fields.
Target Demographic and Program Goals
The program specifically focuses on young people aged 16 to 24, particularly in communities with low labor force participation. The funding seeks to:
- Provide academic support
- Offer occupational skills training
- Facilitate employment services
Partnerships and Outcomes
This initiative aligns with the Trump Administration’s America’s Talent Strategy, which aims to promote over 1 million apprenticeships across the country. For the first time, the Labor Department has established a goal for the percentage of YouthBuild participants entering Registered Apprenticeships within one year of program completion.
This target ensures that the pre-apprenticeship initiatives maintain robust partnerships with apprenticeship sponsors, thereby fostering high-quality career pathways.
Administration and Grant Distribution
The funding will be administered by the Employment and Training Administration, supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. Approximately 57 grants will be awarded, ranging from $1 million to $2 million each.
In addition to core training, the program will promote artificial intelligence literacy, requiring applicants to incorporate AI skills into educational components. Organizations that collaborate with educational institutions, particularly those aligned with the administration’s focus on expanding educational opportunities, will be prioritized.
For more information, interested parties can learn about the YouthBuild funding opportunity and application process through El-Balad.
