The Mississippi Department of Employment Security has secured a $5.7 million grant to boost shipbuilding skills training initiatives.
Funding came as part of an overarching $86 million Industry-Driven Skills Training Fund grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to support workforce development in critical sectors.
Administered through the federal government’s Employment and Training Administration, the funds will reimburse employers for training in high-demand and emerging industries, addressing critical workforce needs in fields such as welding, marine electrical work, and manufacturing.
Mississippi intends to use the grant exclusively for shipbuilding, expanding training programs for major employers like Ingalls Shipbuilding, Bollinger Shipyards, and United States Marine, Inc., which collectively employ tens of thousands of workers.
Local officials say this investment comes at a critical time, as the companies anticipate a need to fill 2,500 new positions annually while also addressing turnover and upskilling current employees.
“Mississippi plays a vital role in national defense and commercial maritime strength,” Gov. Tate Reeves said. “Our state is home to the best shipbuilders on the planet, and we want even more Mississippians to enter this high-paying field. This investment will help ensure our people have the skills and opportunities to support that mission for years to come.”
The Twin Districts Local Workforce Development Area, managed by the Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District, will implement tailored training programs based on feedback from employers. Key initiatives will focus on technical training for entry-level positions, leadership development for supervisors, and upskilling programs.
“Mississippi is proud to be among the states selected for this critical investment,” said Leonard Bentz, the executive director of the Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District. “This grant allows us to scale what works, introduce innovative training strategies, and prepare our people for the industries that are driving economic growth.”