May 2026 Newsletter: Edition 2
Funding Opportunity: AI Upskill Accelerator Pilot Program
The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced a new $25 million AI Upskill Accelerator Pilot Program focused on supporting industry-led workforce development projects that prepare workers with job-ready AI skills.
The initiative aims to bring employers, training providers, and stakeholders together to build demand-driven, industry-aligned training programs that move beyond foundational AI literacy and into practical workplace application.
The first informational webinar for interested applicants will be held on May 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.
Hiring Our Heroes
Troops to Energy Jobs , alongside several CEWD member companies, recently partnered with Hiring Our Heroes for two live veteran-focused career events connecting military talent with opportunities in the energy industry.
On May 12, CEWD hosted an Energy Industry Spotlight featuring an overview of energy careers and pathways across the sector, drawing 119 veteran participants. The following day, CEWD held an Energy Career Fair, speaking directly with veterans about opportunities in the industry. The event resulted in over 55 veterans joining the Troops to Energy Jobs database and 30 requests to connect with our Virtual Career Coach.
Webinar Alert: From Data Gaps to Demand Signals: A Working Session for Consortium Leaders
CEWD consortia leaders are invited to join CEWD on May 20 from 12:00–1:00 PM ET for a working session focused on turning energy workforce data into actionable insights.
This discussion will explore how consortia leaders can better identify workforce needs using forward-looking indicators and help shape a potential industry-wide forecasting and talent modeling tool.
Consortia leaders are encouraged to come prepared to share what workforce data they need and what they are already tracking.
Join our monthly Membership Orientation calls for a guided walkthrough of CEWD resources and how to use them. Perfect for new colleagues, members, and those who need a refresher. Register here.
Join our Quarterly Connection call for CEWD updates, new resources, and what’s ahead. Perfect for new and tenured colleagues looking to get more involved. Register here.
Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.
