|
Community Update
April 2026
| | |
MSSC Submits Workforce Recommendations for National Advanced Manufacturing Plan
The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) has submitted recommendations to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy in response to a Request for Information on the next National Strategic Plan for Advanced Manufacturing. MSSC’s input focuses on strengthening the U.S. manufacturing workforce, highlighting it as a key constraint on industry growth, and outlines strategies to expand the talent pipeline and modernize training systems. MSSC invites stakeholders to review the submission and explore partnership opportunities to advance workforce development efforts. For more information, contact Tyler Kennedy at tkennedy@msscusa.org or 703-739-9000 x2226.
| | |
Advancing Earn-and-Learn Pathways Through MSSC Credentials
As we celebrate the inaugural Spring National Apprenticeship Week, MSSC joins partners across the country in recognizing the power of apprenticeship to build a stronger, more skilled workforce. MSSC continues to play a leading role in advancing apprenticeship pathways nationwide, with a strong focus on both Registered Apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs that build skilled talent pipelines. A key example is the Industrial Manufacturing Technician (IMT) Registered Apprenticeship, where MSSC’s Certified Production Technician (CPT) credential serves as a core component—covering up to 170 hours of the program’s required related instruction. With its emphasis on safety, quality, production processes, and maintenance awareness, CPT provides a strong, industry-relevant foundation that translates across manufacturing roles. By embedding CPT into both IMT apprenticeships and high school pre-apprenticeship models, MSSC helps create structured, scalable pathways that accelerate learning and connect individuals to in-demand careers in manufacturing. Learn more about MSSC’s earn-and-learn pathways here.
| | |
Keith Sonderling Named Acting U.S. Labor Secretary
Following the departure of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Deputy Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling has been named acting head of the U.S. Department of Labor. Sonderling brings prior experience in federal labor policy, having served in key roles during the Trump administration, including at the Wage and Hour Division and later as a commissioner at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, where he worked on issues related to workplace technology and artificial intelligence. He was confirmed as Deputy Labor Secretary in 2025.
As acting secretary, Sonderling will oversee the department during a period of transition and ongoing policy activity. He has been described as a central figure in shaping labor and workforce policy within the administration and is expected to continue advancing its priorities. His appointment follows recent leadership changes at the department, and it remains uncertain whether he will be nominated to serve in the role on a permanent basis. Read Politico’s analysis of the transition here.
| |
MI Survey: Manufacturers Increase Investment in Workforce Training and Apprenticeships
Manufacturers are increasing investments in workforce training and upskilling, with a recent Manufacturing Institute (MI) survey estimating total spending at approximately $32 billion—up 22% from 2019. Companies are also dedicating more time to training, averaging nearly 48 hours per employee annually compared to about 43 hours previously. These findings reflect ongoing industry efforts to ensure workers are equipped with the skills needed to adapt to evolving technologies and production requirements.
The survey also highlights expanded use of apprenticeship programs and advanced training methods, including virtual and augmented reality. Nearly one-third of manufacturers report using apprenticeships, and the number of registered apprentices in advanced manufacturing has grown in recent years. Despite increased investment, manufacturers continue to face challenges such as scheduling, costs, and potential disruptions to production as they work to advance workforce development initiatives. More information here.
| | |
AI Drives Continued Transformation and Investment in Supply Chain Operations
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play a growing role in transforming supply chain operations, according to MHI’s 2026 Annual Industry Report. Based on a survey of 500 professionals, 70% of respondents believe AI will significantly disrupt the industry, with adoption rising to 41% of companies, up from 30% the previous year. Common applications include demand and inventory optimization, predictive maintenance, automated decision-making, and logistics routing.
The report also indicates that investment in supply chain technology remains strong despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty. More than half of surveyed leaders plan to increase spending on technology and automation, with many anticipating investments exceeding $1 million. At the same time, factors such as inflation, trade disruptions, and shifting supplier relationships continue to create challenges, placing added pressure on supply chain operations and costs. Read more here.
| |
Reshoring Initiative Launches 2026 Manufacturing Survey – Open Through June 15, 2026
The Reshoring Initiative, in collaboration with Regions Recruiting, has launched a nationwide survey to examine the factors influencing manufacturers’ decisions to reshore factories and supply chains to the United States. The survey, open through June 15, 2026, is seeking input from OEMs, contract manufacturers, and supply chain and procurement professionals. This year’s survey focuses on the impact of recent policy changes, including taxes and tariffs, as well as workforce needs, training systems, and the role of technologies such as AI. According to Reshoring Initiative founder Harry Moser, “Reshoring job announcements have increased from 11,000 annually in 2010 to 244,000 in 2025, reflecting approximately 25% compound annual growth.” The findings will be shared with industry leaders and policymakers to help inform U.S. industrial policy and manufacturing strategy. More information on the survey and a link to participate can be accessed here.
| | |
AACC CEO: “A Golden Opportunity for Data Innovation”
In a recent opinion piece, DeRionne Pollard, president and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges, highlights the importance of better aligning education and workforce data systems as new Workforce Pell Grant policies take shape. She emphasizes that community colleges play a central role in preparing the nation’s workforce, but current data systems often separate educational outcomes—such as credentials and completion—from labor market results like employment and wages. Improving connections between these systems would provide clearer insight into how education translates into economic opportunity.
Pollard calls for expanded federal and state efforts to integrate data, including investments in longitudinal data systems and potential legislation such as the College Transparency Act. Enhanced data sharing could help institutions track student outcomes across state lines, inform program design, and support accountability measures tied to Workforce Pell. She also notes that stronger data infrastructure would better equip students, colleges, and policymakers to align training programs with workforce needs and support long-term economic mobility. Read Pollard’s Inside Higher Ed piece here.
| | |
Report: Outcomes for High School Students Earning Industry-recognized Credentials
A new study from the Fordham Institute examines the postsecondary and labor market outcomes of students who earn an industry-recognized credential (IRC). Focusing on Ohio students who entered high school between 2011 and 2020, the researchers found that IRC earners are six percentage points more likely to graduate. They are also slightly more likely to be employed and earn 22% more than their non-IRC peers in the first year after high school. The study also finds that credentials are associated with higher wage returns when paired with career and technical education (CTE) course completion. Read more here.
| | |
House Committee Advances WIOA Reauthorization Bill Amid Partisan Divide
Last Tuesday, the House Committee on Education and the Workforce approved the “A Stronger Workforce for America Act of 2026,” a proposal to reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), advancing the bill along party lines. The legislation builds on elements of a previous bipartisan proposal, including authorization of the Strengthening Community College Training Grants program at $65 million annually, increased funding for training through individual training accounts, and automatic inclusion of Workforce Pell and Registered Apprenticeship programs on the Eligible Training Provider List.
The bill also introduces new provisions, including a proposal to transfer adult education programs to the U.S. Department of Labor, which has drawn opposition from Democrats. While some aspects of the legislation have received support, the lack of bipartisan backing may limit its prospects. As it stands, the bill has no Senate companion and would likely face greater scrutiny in the upper chamber without Democratic support, highlighting ongoing debate over workforce policy priorities and program oversight.
| | |
Site Selection Magazine – YouthBuild Expands Manufacturing Training and Workforce Partnerships
A recent article in Site Selection magazine highlights how YouthBuild Global is expanding workforce development initiatives to prepare the next generation of industry talent. Through a network of more than 340 programs, YouthBuild provides training in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, logistics, construction, and healthcare, with a focus on connecting opportunity youth to career pathways through industry partnerships, mentorship, and hands-on learning.
The article also highlights a manufacturing pilot program in Pittsburgh, operated through Garfield Jubilee YouthBuild and supported by the Arconic Foundation. The initiative includes an eight-week bootcamp led by the Community College of Allegheny County, incorporating Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) training along with hands-on instruction and industry exposure. Additional partners, including Catalyst Connection and regional manufacturers, provide facility tours and workforce insights, helping participants gain practical experience and better understand career opportunities in the sector.
| | | | |
