Summary#
This bill creates a competitive grant program at the Department of Labor to help start, run, and grow registered apprenticeship programs in cybersecurity. Grants would be given to "workforce intermediaries," which can be partnerships that include businesses, community-based organizations, state or local workforce boards, postsecondary institutions with apprenticeship experience, labor-management partnerships, institutions of higher education, or nonprofits.
Eligible apprenticeship programs must combine technical classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications. The bill lists example certifications such as CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Windows 10 Technician, Microsoft Certified System Administrator, Certified Network Defender, Certified Ethical Hacker, ISACA CSX, and (ISC)2 CISSP. Programs should encourage stackable and portable credentials and prepare apprentices for roles like computer support specialists, cybersecurity support technicians, cloud computing architects, computer programmers, computer systems analysts, or security specialists.
The Secretary of Labor will award grants on a competitive basis to workforce intermediaries to support program registration, curriculum development, employer connections, and apprentice support services.
What it means for you#
- Employers: Can work with funded intermediaries to develop apprenticeships, get help with curriculum tied to the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, and receive assistance for offsite training costs.
- Jobseekers and students: Could access registered apprenticeships that combine classroom learning, workplace training, and certifications, plus support services such as career counseling and mentorship.
- Workforce intermediaries and training providers: May apply for grants to register and run apprenticeship programs, connect with employers, and provide support services.
Expenses#
- At least 85 percent of each grant must be used for required activities: completing the apprenticeship registration process, technical support, developing curricula with employer partners (referencing the NICE framework), paying for offsite training and course materials, connecting employers with training providers, and providing apprentice support services (career counseling, mentorship, and assistance with transportation, housing, or child care).
- Up to 15 percent of each grant may be used for outreach and marketing, recruiting apprentices (including secondary students, underrepresented populations, youth, and veterans), and coordinating with other intermediaries and federal investments to share best practices and avoid duplication.
- The bill authorizes "such sums as may be necessary" to carry out the program. No exact appropriation amounts are specified.
Proponents' View#
No publicly available information.
Opponents' View#
No publicly available information.