Labor Department and NSF Partner on AI Workforce Initiative With $224M in Funding
The U.S. Department of Labor and National Science Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding to coordinate AI workforce development across the country. The agreement formalizes their collaboration on TechAccess: AI-Ready America, a federal initiative to expand access to AI training and tools for American workers and businesses.
The NSF will distribute up to $224 million to establish up to 56 state and territory coordination hubs. These hubs will drive AI readiness efforts at the regional level, connecting federal resources to local workforce and education systems.
What the Partnership Covers
Under the memorandum, the two agencies committed to three core activities:
- Equip American workers with knowledge and skills for an AI-driven economy
- Support worker transitions and advancement opportunities created by AI adoption
- Research how AI is changing labor markets, job requirements, and economic outcomes
The Labor Department will integrate the coordination hubs into existing systems including American Job Centers, Registered Apprenticeships programs, and its own AI Literacy Framework and AI Workforce Hub.
Broader Government Effort
The TechAccess initiative involves four federal agencies: the NSF, Labor Department, Department of Agriculture, and Small Business Administration. The collaboration advances goals outlined in America's Talent Strategy and the White House's AI Action Plan.
For those working in human resources or education, understanding how these federal initiatives shape workforce training will be essential. Learn more about AI for Human Resources and AI for Education to stay current on how these programs affect your field.
Your membership also unlocks:
