The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the availability of up to $8 million in funding to support efforts aimed at revitalizing the domestic shipbuilding industry. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the role of American workers in global supply chains.
This project intends to link U.S. technical education centers and community colleges with similar training programs in allied countries such as the Republic of Korea and Japan, which are recognized as leading shipbuilders globally after China. The collaboration is designed to facilitate knowledge transfer and equip American workers with advanced shipbuilding skills.
The funding builds on President Trump’s Executive Order, “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” and aims to boost both national security and economic prosperity by rebuilding the U.S. maritime workforce.
“Working closely with our allies will advance the Department of Labor’s mission to create effective shipbuilding apprenticeship programs right here in the United States,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “We are committed to helping President Trump restore maritime dominance by preparing American workers for success, which will lead to more mortgage-paying jobs and enhance national security.”
The Bureau of International Labor Affairs will oversee the administration of these grants. The goal is to develop hands-on training programs together with international partners, while also creating an internationally recognized trade curriculum that supports advanced training opportunities within the U.S.
Eligible participants include veterans and people with disabilities, with priority given to trades such as boilermakers, industrial electricians, steel workers, steamfitters, shipwrights, and welders. Commercial entities, educational institutions, non-profit organizations—including faith-based and community-based groups—as well as public international organizations are eligible to apply for this funding.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, Sept. 26, 2025.
More information about this funding opportunity can be found on the Department of Labor's website: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/ilab/ilab20250904
Further details about ongoing efforts to protect American workers are available here: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/our-work
