technology
Five Companies Announce Funding for Skilled Trades Training Programs
Google, AT&T, Lowe’s, Meta and BlackRock have directed tens of millions of dollars toward training in plumbing, electrical work and other trades over the past six months. The spending supports infrastructure projects and retirement-plan participation.
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Google, AT&T, Lowe’s, Meta and BlackRock have announced funding for programs that train workers in plumbing, electrical work, pipe fitting and iron work. The commitments total several hundred million dollars and were made within the past six months.
Meta is spending $115 million and Lowe’s is spending $250 million on the training initiatives. BlackRock is making a $100 million charitable grant to its Future Builders program, including $30 million announced in May for more than 12,000 trainees in Texas.
AT&T has not disclosed a separate training figure but said the spending forms part of a five-year, $38 billion infrastructure plan. Company statements link the programs to the need for workers to expand high-speed fiber networks that support data centers.
The companies previously directed funds to nonprofit organizations focused on diversity metrics and environmental standards. Current announcements emphasize preparation for jobs that pay six figures and do not require college degrees. BlackRock manages $14 trillion in assets and offers retirement plans; its grant supports training in states experiencing rapid growth that requires additional skilled labor.
