The U.S. Department of Labor has awarded nearly $14 million to Delaware County Community College and Massachusetts Maritime Academy to expand hands-on training and apprenticeship programs aimed at rebuilding America’s shipbuilding workforce. Delaware County Community College will receive $8 million and Massachusetts Maritime Academy $5.8 million to develop specialized shipbuilding curricula in partnership with U.S. shipyards and international allies, focusing on trades, modular construction techniques, and icebreaker design. The grants support the Trump administration’s goal of reaching 1 million registered apprenticeships nationwide and align with its April 2025 executive order elevating shipbuilding to a national security priority. Officials note the investment comes as U.S. shipbuilding lags global competitors, with the United States producing less than one percent of the world’s commercial ships. The programs also dovetail with international cooperation under the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort Pact, ensuring a skilled workforce is in place as billions are committed to new Arctic and polar vessel construction.