ORLANDO, FL. As the United States looks to strengthen domestic manufacturing, one of the challenges is making sure there are enough workers with the skills needed to fill those jobs.
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WDBO’s Katie Coronado spoke with Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg about that need and a new effort to better connect universities with the manufacturing industry.
The Foundry School, announced by Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, will bring universities together with manufacturing and technology leaders to train entrepreneurs, engineers, technicians and future industrial leaders.
Helberg told WDBO the initiative is about empowering universities to help prepare workers for a changing manufacturing economy. He also discussed the potential for more universities, including those in Florida, to participate as the initiative grows.
The conversation comes as Florida is expanding its own workforce training efforts.
On Thursday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida’s initial list of programs eligible for Workforce Pell Grant funding, expanding access to short-term career training in areas including advanced manufacturing, aviation, welding and other high-demand fields.
Helberg told WDBO the administration supports Florida’s workforce efforts, as both initiatives focus on preparing more people with skills that can lead directly to jobs.
Foundry School launches eight universities and is expected to expand to additional institutions.
Listen to the full interview below:
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