Gov. Gianforte, DLI Secure $4.8 Million to Expand Employer-Led Workforce Training

Montana Skills Fund will support training in advanced manufacturing, computing, and construction

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the Montana Department of Labor and Industry has been awarded $4.8 million through the U.S. Department of Labor's Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund to expand employer-led workforce training in high-demand industries.

Montana is one of seven states receiving a share of $43 million in federal awards. The funding will establish the Montana Skills Fund, a statewide program that will help employers train newly hired and incumbent workers for in-demand jobs.

"Montana employers know best which skills their workers need to succeed," Gov. 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."

The Montana Skills Fund will provide outcome-based reimbursements to eligible employers for approved training costs. Employers will be able to select training that best meets their workforce needs, whether provided by an outside vendor or through an employer-led program.

Training may begin on an employee's first day of work, and employers will be eligible for higher reimbursement amounts for advanced, credential-bearing training. Under the program's performance-based model, employers will receive 80 percent of approved training costs after an employee completes training. The remaining 20 percent will be paid after the employee 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 (DLI). "By supporting training from an employee's first day and giving businesses flexibility to select the training they need, the Montana Skills Fund will help workers gain valuable skills and help employers fill critical jobs."

The fund will initially focus on two high-demand sectors identified through Gov. Gianforte's 406 JOBS initiative including advanced manufacturing and computing and construction trades.

The federal Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund supports employer partnerships in high-growth and emerging industries, with national priorities that include advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence infrastructure, construction, information technology, nuclear energy, domestic mineral production, and shipbuilding. The grants provide outcome-based reimbursement for training that responds to changing skill requirements and local workforce needs.

"A strong workforce system starts by listening to employers and responding to real industry needs," State Workforce Innovation Board Chair Adam Gilbertson said. "The Montana Skills Fund will strengthen that connection by directing training resources toward the skills and occupations Montana businesses need to grow."

DLI will administer the fund in partnership with employers and industry organizations, including the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center, Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance, Montana Contractors Association, DLI's Business and Education Engagement Bureau, and regional employer-led sector partnerships established through 406 JOBS.

"Montana's photonics and quantum companies are competing in a rapidly growing global industry, and access to skilled workers is essential to their success," Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance Executive Director Jason Yager said. "This fund will help employers develop the specialized talent pipeline they need while creating opportunities for Montanans to pursue high-paying careers in advanced technology."

"Montana contractors are ready to train the next generation of skilled workers, but training costs can be a significant hurdle," Montana Contractors Association Executive Director David Smith said. "This employer-driven fund will help contractors expand apprenticeships and other proven training pathways, giving more Montanans the skills they need for rewarding careers in the construction trades."

DLI will use existing Unemployment Insurance wage records to verify employment outcomes, reducing administrative requirements for participating employers. Under the grant, DLI will complete an initial planning process with stakeholders and the U.S. Department of Labor. Employer eligibility requirements, application procedures and program timelines will be announced in early 2027.

For more information on the federal Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's program page here.

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