US Department of Labor, National Science Foundation announce collaborative efforts on AI workforce, TechAccess Initiative

News Release

US Department of Labor, National Science Foundation announce collaborative efforts on AI workforce, TechAccess Initiative

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Science Foundation to advance workforce development efforts related to artificial intelligence.

The MOU solidifies the department's formal partnership with the NSF on the TechAccess: AI-Ready America initiative, a newly launched national effort led by NSF to expand access to AI knowledge, tools, and training for American workers and businesses. In addition to the memorandum of understanding, the NSF recently announced it will make available up to $224M in funding for the establishment of up to 56 State/Territory Coordination Hubsto drive AI readiness across the country.

The TechAccess program and the funding availability represent a collaborative effort between the NSF, the departments of Labor and Agriculture, and the Small Business Administration.

"The TechAccess initiative will ensure every American worker has the skills, knowledge, and training needed to succeed in an AI-driven economy," said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. "Under President Trump's bold leadership, the Department of Labor is proud to partner with NSF to advance AI readiness, empower American businesses to innovate with AI, and create opportunities that will benefit all Americans."

"This partnership demonstrates the Trump Administration's unified and innovative approach to supporting American workers in the age of AI," said Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling. "Through the TechAccess Initiative, the Department of Labor will maximize the impact of regional AI readiness efforts by ensuring they are fully integrated into the workforce and education systems."

"This partnership reflects a shared commitment across the federal government to ensure American workers and businesses are prepared for the opportunities of artificial intelligence," said Brian Stone, performing the duties of the NSF director. "Through the TechAccess initiative, NSF is proud to work alongside the Department of Labor and our partners to expand access to AI knowledge, strengthen workforce pathways, and support coordinated, nationwide efforts that will help communities across the country succeed in an AI-driven economy."

The department has committed to advancing the TechAccess program's impact by connecting its Coordination Hubs to the public workforce and education system, including through networks like American Job Centers, training pathways like Registered Apprenticeships, and initiatives like its AI Literacy Frameworkand AI Workforce Hub.

The TechAccess initiative and collaboration between the agencies advance the Trump Administration's commitment to equip American workers with the skills, pathways, and resources to succeed in the age of AI, as outlined in America's Talent Strategyand the White House's AI Action Plan.

Under the MOU, the department and the National Science Foundation will:

• Collaborate on initiatives that equip American workers with the knowledge and skills to succeed in an AI-driven economy.
• Support strategies that prepare workers for transitions and advancement opportunities created by AI adoption.
• Conduct research on how AI is transforming labor markets, job requirements, and economic outcomes.

Read the Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Labor and the National Science Foundation.

Read the TechAccess program funding solicitation.