Eight projects will expand hands-on training for jobs supporting oil, natural gas, coal, geothermal energy, energy infrastructure, and Tribal communities
Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office
October 15, 2026
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WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO) and Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs (IE) today announced nearly $11.1 million in federal funding for eight projects selected for negotiation through the Partnerships for Academic-Industry Career Training (PACT) Initiative. The projects will create or expand hands-on training and industry-recognized credentialing programs designed around regional workforce needs, helping prepare American workers for critical jobs that support oil, natural gas, coal, and geothermal energy industries.
“President Trump’s American energy dominance agenda relies on workers with the practical skills to build, operate, maintain, and modernize the systems that power our economy,” said DOE Acting Assistant Secretary for Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Curt Coccodrilli. “These projects will bring industry and educators together to ensure training reflects real-world needs. By investing in job-focused training, the Department of Energy is helping develop the workforce we need to strengthen U.S. energy resilience and supplies.”
“The Tribal energy workforce is vital to unleashing America’s energy resources,” said IE Director Eric Mahroum. “Through targeted jobs and training, Tribes are growing the next generation of Tribal energy leaders. Tribal colleges and universities are essential partners in this mission, and we are proud to select two of these institutions as they prepare workers to tackle the critical energy challenges facing America.”
The selections include almost $8.8 million for six HGEO-supported projects and approximately $2.3 million for two IE-supported projects. By bringing together colleges, technical institutions, employers, and workforce partners, PACT is designed to build a stronger pipeline of skilled workers needed to advance President Trump’s commitment to expand domestic energy production to provide more affordable, reliable, and secure energy to the American people.
Learn more about the selected eight projects here.
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