The U.S. Department of Commerce announced the expansion of SelectTalentUSA, a collaborative initiative with the Departments of Labor and Education, aimed at providing technical assistance to foreign businesses for recruitment and training programs within their U.S. workforce. This expansion now includes clients from Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, specifically targeting semiconductor and supply chain firms looking to establish or expand operations in the United States.
Launched in May 2023, SelectTalentUSA initially piloted its efforts in Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland with a focus on Registered Apprenticeships to foster cooperation and information exchange. The initiative helps foreign investor companies build local partnerships and adapt their talent-development strategies to leverage America's diverse and skilled workforce.
The program is part of the SelectUSA-led Interagency Investment Working Group (IIWG), which comprises over 20 departments working together to provide guidance on business investment decisions. Through IIWG, SelectTalentUSA connects foreign investors with resources and experts to establish quality training programs.
During its pilot year, outreach efforts by SelectUSA along with the Departments of Labor and Education focused on Registered Apprenticeships have led several companies to either sign or near signing RA standards with the Department of Labor for new U.S. training programs.
SelectTalentUSA aims to promote foreign direct investment that generates well-paying jobs in America. These investments align with the Biden-Harris Administration's objectives of creating an equitable economy for workers and families while revitalizing overlooked communities. The expansion allows more investor companies from various markets access to the American workforce, thereby fostering a skilled talent pipeline and increasing job opportunities.
Additionally, this initiative supports the CHIPS for America program's goals to enhance U.S. capabilities in semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing.
SelectUSA operates under the International Trade Administration at the Department of Commerce. It facilitates business investment into the United States by coordinating federal government agencies as a single point of contact for investors. It also aids U.S. economic development organizations in competing globally by providing information, international marketing platforms, and high-level advocacy.
For more information about SelectUSA, visit www.trade.gov/selectusa.
