Two federal grants worth $13.2 million will be used by state labor officials to help workers train for and secure new jobs following layoffs and even reimburse employers for training workers in key industries. 

“These grants will help people learn new skills and get back to work,” said Employment Security Interim Commissioner Martin McMurry in a statement. “This is a welcome opportunity to partner with key employers to train and employ workers in industries critical to our state.” 

The Rapid Reskill Employment Recovery National Dislocated Worker grant will specifically assist workers who lost jobs through no fault of their own, according to a release. The Employment Security Department will connect those workers with training opportunities in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, construction infrastructure, healthcare, clean technology and other industries.  

Meanwhile, the Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund grant will partially cover employer costs for training workers in key sectors, such as nuclear energy, artificial intelligence infrastructure and shipbuilding so long as the worker stays with the company for a minimum of six months.  

Eligible training includes customized instruction, on-the-job training, registered apprenticeships and partnerships through community and technical colleges. 

ESD officials are working with federal labor officials to implement the grants and their programs. More details on eligibility and how to participate are expected to be available early in 2027.