The U.S. Labor Department is setting a course to enhance its shipbuilding industry by collaborating with allies such as South Korea and Japan. This initiative emerges during a significant push by the Trump administration to bolster American maritime capabilities.
On Thursday, the Labor Department announced an $8 million funding opportunity aimed at launching an international fellowship program. This project is designed to pair U.S. training centers and apprenticeship programs with foreign institutions and shipyards in allied nations. The aim is clear: equip American workers with advanced shipbuilding skills that have been in short supply.
The plan is ambitious and spans four years. It involves partnerships with community colleges and training centers across Canada, Finland, Italy, and other nations. By fostering international cooperation, the program seeks to elevate shipbuilding standards domestically. U.S. workers, particularly those in trades like boilermaking, industrial electricity, and welding, will benefit directly from this initiative.
“Working closely with our allies will advance the Department of Labor’s mission to create effective shipbuilding apprenticeship programs right here in the United States,” Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer stated. She emphasized the program’s potential to improve competitiveness against China, framing it as a key element in restoring America’s maritime dominance.
Currently, the statistics paint a stark picture of the U.S. shipbuilding landscape. China leads the world, accounting for over 50% of global shipbuilding. South Korea follows with nearly 29%, while Japan contributes about 13%. In contrast, the United States is lagging significantly, contributing a mere 0.1% to global production. The Center for Strategic and International Studies reports that this decline not only threatens military readiness but also limits economic opportunities.
Recognizing these challenges, the Trump administration has adopted a proactive approach. In March, Trump expressed a commitment to “resurrect” both commercial and military shipbuilding. An executive order from April detailed plans to assess how to strengthen support for the shipbuilding sector, including potential financial backing through various government programs. This order also directed agencies to craft a maritime action plan to tackle China’s market practices in shipbuilding.
The fellowship program aligns directly with these broader efforts. According to the Labor Department, organizations—including educational, commercial, and nonprofit entities—are encouraged to apply for funding, which aims to build a specialized trade curriculum that meets international standards. The deadline for applications is September 26.
As the U.S. seeks to enhance its shipbuilding skills base, it is evident that a collaborative approach with allies may provide the necessary boost to compete in an increasingly challenging global environment. By investing in training and fostering partnerships, the Labor Department hopes to cultivate a workforce capable of meeting today’s demands and future challenges in maritime industries.
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