Capitol Hill was quiet this week with Congress recessed until after the election. The Department of Labor has been active, announcing several new grant opportunities with a focus on apprenticeships for underserved youth and women in nontraditional occupations. They’ve also updated resources on outreach and industry. Keep reading for more updates!
- Department of Labor Announces $20 Million in Grants Available for Out-of-School Time: The Department of Labor announced up to $20 million in grants to expand work-based learning opportunities, job training and career pathways for underserved youth after school and during summer. Applications are due December 3.
- Department of Labor Announced $6 Million in Grants to Expand Job Opportunities for Women in Apprenticeships, Nontraditional Occupations: The Department of Labor announced the award of new grants to help recruit, train and retain women in quality pre-apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs and nontraditional occupations.
- Department of Labor Updated Resource on Outreach to Business on Apprenticeships: The Department of Labor updated their resource on developing outreach strategies and materials to business partners in support of apprenticeship expansion.
- Department of Labor Industry Focus Calls: The Department of Labor shared the transcripts and summaries of their Industry Focus calls related to apprenticeship expansion conducted from 2019-2024. The calls can help employers and other stakeholders gain insights to use in growing apprenticeships.
- Department of Labor Webinar: The Department of Labor is hosting a webinar “Be Pro, Be Proud: Building Tomorrow’s Workforce” to offer students, parents and teachers new perspectives on high-demand technical careers in construction, manufacturing, transportation, utilities and other sectors.
- Update on FAFSA: Secretary Cardona addressed public concerns on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as the Department of Education began their testing period for the updated 2025-25 FAFSA form. Check out the blog for more information and resources on this year’s FAFSA process.
- Department of Education Seeking Peer Reviewers: Each year, the Department of Education convenes panels of education professionals and practitioners to peer review grants. They are currently in search of peer reviewers, so apply if interested.