Energy Department Partners with Three National Labs to Expand the Pipeline of Tribal Energy Leaders

WASHINGTON-The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Indian Energy (IE) today announced the launch of the Tribal Advancement through Laboratory Experience, Networking, and Training (TALENT) Program to support Tribal workers in pursuing career pathways that can help Tribal communities tackle pressing energy issues. IE is announcing partnerships with three DOE National Laboratories, including Sandia National Labs, National Lab of the Rockies, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratories, aligned to host two classes of interns and fellows at national research facilities across the country. One class will be designated for Tribal staff and student interns, and another class will be designated for Tribal college and university (TCU) faculty fellows, at national research facilities across the country.

Leveraging the world-class expertise and facilities at DOE National Labs, Tribal staff and students can gain hands-on experience as part of a cohort focused on critical energy challenges. The partnership is intended to grow the Tribal energy workforce and foster economic development, in line with the Trump Administration goals, IE's authorizing statute, and Tribal self-determination.

"The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Indian Energy is committed to equipping and empowering the next generation of Tribal energy leaders with the skills they need to support their communities, drive economic growth, and unleash American energy dominance," said DOE's Office of Indian Energy Director Eric Mahroum. "Programs like TALENT will help shape a workforce that can advance Tribal energy development, strengthen economic independence, and deliver lasting results."

Through the TALENT program, Tribal staff and students, including TCU faculty, can serve as interns and fellows at DOE National Labs. This exchange of knowledge and skills will help Tribes deliver affordable, reliable, and secure energy to Tribal communities by expanding their existing pipeline of energy leaders and workers.

Applications to participate in TALENT are anticipated to be open October 15, 2026, through January 10, 2027. Applications can be accessed by visiting ORISE.