Workforce Training Support: What Foundries Should Watch
DOL Awards $43 Million for Industry-Driven Skills Training
New awards to seven states support employer-driven training in manufacturing and other critical industries.
The Department of Labor (DOL) announced on September 30, 2026, that seven states will receive about $43 million in the second round of its Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund. The awards support employer-driven training in advanced manufacturing, shipbuilding, aerospace, nuclear energy, and other critical industries.
What You Need to Know
About $43 million in state workforce agency awards to support employer-driven skills training.
Colorado, Indiana, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Washington.
State implementation details will determine employer participation. This announcement does not open a single nationwide employer application period.
Seven States Receive Second-Round Awards
Funding will go to state workforce agencies in the following states. Award amounts below are rounded.
| State | Approximate Award |
|---|---|
| Colorado | $6.74 million |
| Indiana | $6.74 million |
| Montana | $4.84 million |
| Nebraska | $4.63 million |
| Oregon | $6.74 million |
| Pennsylvania | $6.74 million |
| Washington | $6.74 million |
Training That Responds to Industry Needs
The program funds outcome-based reimbursements to employers that offer training responsive to changing skill requirements and local workforce needs. More than $10 million from the new awards will support occupations in domestic shipbuilding and the maritime supply chain.
Combined with the first round announced in September 2025, the program has awarded more than $129 million to 21 states, including over $30 million for shipbuilding.
The latest announcement awards funds to states rather than opening a single nationwide employer application period. Employer participation will depend on implementation by the recipient state agencies.
What This Could Mean for Foundries
For members in recipient states, these awards are a reason to explore whether upcoming state programs could support their workforce training needs. A state award does not automatically establish eligibility for an individual foundry.
Outline the skills your employees need, the training you are considering and the outcomes you want to achieve.
Ask about implementation plans, employer eligibility, qualifying training and how participation opportunities will be announced.
Ask whether prior approval is required and how reimbursable expenses and training outcomes will be documented.
What Comes Next
Members should look to the recipient state agencies for program details, participation procedures and any application deadlines. Foundries outside these seven states can also use NFFS grant resources to explore other funding opportunities.
Review DOL’s announcement for award details and state agency recipients.
Read the DOL AnnouncementStay Ahead of What Comes Next
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