Workforce Policies to Boost Security and Resiliency

This document is a report that outlines workforce policies aimed at addressing the talent deficit in critical industries essential for U.S. security and resilience. It highlights the growing workforce shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, AI, and cybersecurity, where a significant percentage of companies struggle to find qualified talent. The report emphasizes the need for a skilled workforce to meet the demands of national security and economic resilience, detailing the projected need for millions of new workers in manufacturing alone. It presents recommendations for federal and state policymakers to strengthen the workforce through initiatives like expanding apprenticeships, supporting employer-based training, and enhancing public-private partnerships. The report also discusses the importance of addressing the digital skills divide and advancing data-driven decision-making to align training programs with industry needs. Additionally, it mentions the role of federal Pell Grants in making career-focused education more accessible, particularly for low-income students, to support the development of a skilled workforce.