NSF grants boost tech workforce training in community colleges

This summer, the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) announced two new funding programs aimed at enhancing workforce training in emerging technologies at community and technical colleges. The Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) and the Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) programs were established following the CHIPS & Science Act of 2022, which emphasizes the importance of workforce development in technology fields. NSF has particularly focused on supporting institutions that serve diverse populations, including minority-serving institutions and non-research universities. The EPIIC program allows community colleges to form partnerships with industry and research organizations to foster regional innovation ecosystems. In 2023, NSF awarded $18.6 million in EPIIC grants to various colleges, marking a significant step in expanding support for workforce development. These initiatives are designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand sectors such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and green energy, thereby contributing to economic growth and job creation. Despite these advancements, the NSF faced challenges when Congress reduced its budget by $800 million, which could hinder the agency's ability to implement the CHIPS Act effectively. Community college leaders and other stakeholders have voiced their concerns regarding these cuts, urging Congress to uphold its commitments to workforce development. The NSF EPIIC program has a deadline for applications set for January 21, 2025, while the ExLENT program has yet to announce its next funding solicitation. Colleges interested in these opportunities are encouraged to stay informed through the NSF's Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships Directorate's website.