Significant Workforce Training Reform Sees North Carolina Representation
In a major development for workforce training, Dr. Andrea DeSantis from North Carolina has been appointed by the U.S. Department of Education to play a key role in shaping a transformative federal initiative. This initiative, part of the Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-driven (AHEAD) Workforce Pell Committee, aims to redefine how workforce training is approached across the nation.
Dr. DeSantis, serving as an alternate negotiator, represents State Workforce Agencies and Workforce Development Boards in this crucial process. The committee, which convened in Washington, D.C., is tasked with setting the framework for the new Workforce Pell grants, a significant step toward offering more career training opportunities nationwide.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of North Carolina’s involvement, stating, “North Carolina has a seat at the table for Workforce Pell, which is poised to empower our students and workers with the skills and credentials they need.” He highlighted Dr. DeSantis’s expertise in workforce education as a critical asset to this initiative.
The Workforce Pell program is designed to enable students to access federal Pell grants for short-term training that lasts between eight to 15 weeks. These programs must align with industries that are high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand and count towards academic credits. The committee’s negotiations will address intricate details, including program eligibility and employer needs, to build an accountability framework.
Dr. DeSantis is the sole representative from North Carolina and is unique as the only head of a state workforce agency participating in these discussions. She acts as an alternate for Rachael Stephens Parker of Maryland, ensuring diverse stakeholder representation in the negotiations.
According to N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, “Assistant Secretary DeSantis is a national leader in workforce development, and her engagement in this national rulemaking process will make Workforce Pell more effective.” He underscored the importance of short-term training for many high-demand jobs and how Workforce Pell could significantly enhance training access.
Dr. DeSantis has been leading the Division of Workforce Solutions since 2024, supporting federal programs and local workforce development boards. Her extensive background includes roles as a Policy Advisor under Governor Roy Cooper and positions at NC State University and the NCWorks Commission. She holds advanced degrees from the University of Cincinnati and N.C. State University.
Aligning with the Workforce Pell initiative, Governor Stein has tasked the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships to devise strategies for its effective implementation in North Carolina. This council endeavors to broaden access to well-paying jobs by promoting apprenticeships, securing industry-valued credentials, and fostering employer engagement.
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