The Trump administration plans to end $400 million in energy grants that bolster Oregon’s clean technology sector and workforce development programs. The cancellations are set to halt major transmission upgrades and energy-efficiency projects across the state, raising concerns among local officials and industry leaders.

Sampson Community College, in partnership with Smithfield Foods, has launched the SEED Agriculture Pre-Apprenticeship Academy. Focused on developing early career opportunities in agriculture, this program aims to guide future professionals toward a thriving industry.

Alabama’s community colleges have recorded their fifth consecutive year of enrollment growth, up nearly 8% this fall. With this momentum, the board has committed $30 million to a workforce partnership and introduced additional new projects, underscoring the state’s focus on advanced skill-building and job readiness.

Local leaders recently met at the Lowcountry Conference Center to address strategies for attracting and retaining top talent in Dorchester County. Spearheaded by The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce, the event showcased the potential of community partnerships to strengthen the workforce.

Several Wisconsin school districts, including Augusta, Durand-Arkansaw, and Elk Mound, have been awarded technology education grants by the Department of Workforce Development. Totaling just under $1 million, these funds aim to expand classroom resources and foster workforce readiness. This coordinated push reflects a growing commitment to educational innovation in the Chippewa Valley and beyond.

Google is investing $9 billion in Virginia, including plans to build a data center in Chesterfield. Beyond boosting local infrastructure, the company also announces free AI tools training and career certificates for students at institutions like Old Dominion University.

In his recent budget address, Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized that bolstering workforce development is essential to expanding Pennsylvania’s economy and reversing the state’s unfolding demographic crisis. Addressing workforce shortages head-on, he called for urgent action to strengthen the state’s labor force.