U.S. Labor Department awards $162M to expand apprenticeship programs nationwide

The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded $162 million in cooperative agreements to five organizations to expand apprenticeship programs in critical industries nationwide. The performance-based incentive funding will support apprenticeship growth in shipbuilding, defense, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, nuclear energy, telecommunications, information technology and automotive sectors. Recipients include the Florida Department of Commerce ($40 million), Jobs for the Future ($40M), Wireless Infrastructure Association ($30M), Clark University ($2M), and ASE Foundation ($25M). At least 85% of each award will support eligible apprenticeship sponsors, tying federal investment to measurable workforce outcomes.