Four Oregon State University proposed projects have been awarded grants by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC). The Oregon Workforce Ready Grant awards were given to 62 projects across the state that prioritize underserved and marginalized communities, awarding approximately $42 million. Oregon State projects are set to receive more than $3.3 million of that support.
The grants in healthcare, manufacturing and technology support collaborative programs that center the needs of Oregon’s underserved communities and connect individuals to resources for pursuing good-paying jobs and meaningful careers in key sectors of Oregon’s economy.
Workforce Ready Grant funding comes from the Oregon Legislature’s 2022 investment known as Future Ready Oregon (Senate Bill 1545).
One of the Oregon State projects approved will provide veterans with training and internships to prepare them for careers in the semiconductor industry. The program was awarded $1 million and will be called VETS-UP (Veterans Semiconductor Upskilling). Jessica DuPont, associate vice provost for market development and the student experience with the Division of Educational Ventures, said the project will fill a crucial gap in Oregon’s workforce and support an important and skilled group of students.
"Veterans bring unparalleled skills, leadership and determination to their education and careers, yet they often face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian life,” DuPont said. “At Oregon State University, where more than 2,400 veteran students—including over 1,500 pursuing degrees online—are part of our community, we see firsthand the value of creating pathways to success for those who have served. Initiatives like this not only honor the service of our veterans but also equip them with the tools they need to thrive in the workforce and beyond."
A Portland-focused project through OSU’s Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) program will partner with the Black Business Association of Oregon to provide underserved learners in the Portland area a bootcamp to learn about software and web development. They were awarded $1 million. Patrick Kelley is director of PACE, and said the proposed project will open doors for learners.
“This program further exemplifies PACE and OSU's commitment to fostering equity and opportunity through workforce development,” Kelley said. “Not only are we strengthening the local economy, we are also helping underserved populations prepare for high-demand careers. This partnership is about opening doors, creating connections and empowering learners to succeed in an evolving industry."
The College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science will receive $1 million to focus on a geospatial technology workforce partnership focused on creating and supporting those interested in a geospatial technology career, including training and internships.
“We are excited to partner with other academic institutions and Oregon employers to help create a workforce to meet the needs of industries that increasingly need geospatial skillsets. We intend to help create a workforce that reflects the diversity of Oregon communities, with a particular focus on rural needs,” says Kuuipo Walsh, program director for CEOAS’ geographic information science certificate program.
The Oregon State University Mechanized Harvesting Laboratory was awarded $383, 730 to work with a number of other partners to train operators on modern harvesting equipment.
“Through multiple partnerships, the leadership of expert faculty and access to the latest cutting-edge technology, the College of Forestry’s mechanized harvesting lab provides experiential learning for modern forest harvesting systems that support worker safety, improve harvest efficiency and minimize environmental disturbance.” said Tom DeLuca, dean of the Oregon State University College of Forestry. “This grant will allow us to expand access to innovative training programs that address workforce shortages, support rural and underserved communities and ensure the sustainability of Oregon’s forestry sector for generations to come.”
To see a full list of projects and partners, click here.
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