Bill > S1422

This bill, the Energy Workforce for the 21st Century Act of 2015, mandates the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a comprehensive program aimed at improving education and training for jobs in the energy and manufacturing sectors. The program's core objective is to increase the number of skilled workers in these fields, with a particular emphasis on encouraging individuals from underrepresented groups, such as ethnic minorities, women, veterans, and those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related to these industries. The DOE will provide direct assistance, including financial aid, technical expertise, and mentorships, to various educational institutions and organizations, such as secondary schools, community colleges, and minority-serving institutions, to help them develop and implement relevant training programs. The bill also calls for the creation of a clearinghouse to share information and resources on workforce development, and for collaboration with various government agencies and industry stakeholders to understand and address the evolving needs of the energy and manufacturing workforce. Furthermore, the DOE will develop guidelines for educational institutions to ensure graduates possess the necessary skills for these jobs, with a focus on promoting STEM education and energy efficiency and conservation initiatives. Special attention will be given to outreach and support for minority-serving institutions and for displaced or unemployed energy and manufacturing workers to help them re-enter the workforce.