HELENA, Mont.—The Montana Department of Labor and Industry has secured $4.8 million in federal funding to expand workforce training programs led by employers in high-demand industries, including advanced manufacturing, technology and construction.
The funding comes through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund. Montana is one of seven states receiving a share of $43 million in federal grants aimed at helping businesses train new and existing employees.
The state will use the award to establish the Montana Skills Fund, a program that reimburses eligible employers for approved workforce training expenses.
“Montana employers know best which skills their workers need to succeed,” Gov. Greg Gianforte said. “Through the Montana Skills Fund, we’re putting employers in the driver’s seat, expanding access to good-paying careers, and building a stronger workforce to support Montana’s growing industries.”
Under the program, employers can select training programs that meet their workforce needs, including instruction provided by outside organizations or developed internally.
Training can begin on an employee’s first day of work, and employers may qualify for higher reimbursement amounts when workers complete advanced training that results in professional credentials.
The program uses a performance-based payment system. Employers will receive 80% of approved training costs after an employee successfully completes training, with the remaining 20% paid after the worker remains employed for six months.
“This grant will remove barriers that prevent employers from accessing workforce training resources,” said Sarah Swanson, commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
The fund will initially target advanced manufacturing and computing, along with construction trades. Both sectors were identified as priorities through the governor’s 406 JOBS workforce development initiative.
The program is also intended to support Montana’s growing photonics and quantum technology industries, which require workers with specialized technical skills.
Jason Yager, executive director of the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance, said the funding could help technology companies develop the workforce needed to compete in national and international markets.
The Montana Contractors Association also supports the initiative, citing training expenses as a barrier to expanding apprenticeship programs and developing skilled construction workers.
The Department of Labor and Industry will administer the program in partnership with employers, industry organizations and regional workforce groups. Participating organizations include the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance and Montana Contractors Association.
The department plans to use existing unemployment insurance wage records to verify employment outcomes, reducing paperwork and administrative requirements for participating businesses.
Federal funding for the broader Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund supports workforce development in sectors including artificial intelligence infrastructure, information technology, nuclear energy, domestic mineral production and shipbuilding.
Montana officials will complete an initial planning process with the U.S. Department of Labor and industry stakeholders before launching the program.
Employer eligibility requirements, application procedures and program timelines are expected to be announced in early 2027.