Free self-assessment from Tooling U-SME to gauge a manufacturer’s knowledge retention, readiness for future skills, and status of employee development programs. Designed for employers, plant leaders, HR/L&D, educators, and workforce partners to identify gaps and prioritize actions toward SME’s Workforce 2030 goals. Cost: Free. Host: Tooling U-SME.

Practical workforce playbook from SME/Tooling U-SME for manufacturers, educators, and workforce orgs. Covers MFG Day/event playbooks, school partnerships (PRIME, CTE, community colleges), tours, internships/co-ops, DEIA engagement, and “what’s next” follow-ups. Use it to plan outreach, build talent pipelines, and align with local training resources.

Entry-level certification focused on fundamentals of lithium-ion battery packaging and assembly for electric vehicles. Candidates can prepare with optional Tooling U-SME online classes (not required) and sit for a proctored online exam. Designed for high-school/college students, job seekers, dislocated/under-employed workers, veterans, and entry-level talent targeting battery assembly roles.

Pricing (online exam): Nonmember $490 • SME Member $245 • College Student $75.

Roundup of EV training initiatives (U.S., Costa Rica, Ghana, South Africa, Chile, Kenya) with common success markers: safety-first modules, competency-based design, hands-on labs with real equipment, and partnerships with industry. Includes scale strategies (pilot → expand, use of VR/AR).

Note: Some external program links referenced in the article may return 404 as sites change.

Equity framework and early analysis for Good Jobs Challenge programs. The post introduces “Three Spheres of Equity” (local context, organizational practices, and program delivery) with actionable recommendations. Also routes users to EDA’s “Find Open Funding” page for continuously open federal grants.

Related link: EDA – Find Open Funding (All Opportunities): https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs

Center for Automotive Research (CAR) intake form to request a pre-publication copy of the Battery Industry Education & Training Needs Assessment (BIETNA) report. Positioned for advisory/consulting on battery workforce needs (skills gaps, training alignment, hiring estimates). Note: access requires completing the CAR request form.
 

Plain-language EV basics for communities—vehicle types (HEV/PHEV/BEV), charging levels and terms, siting “charging pyramid,” and Michigan examples/benefits.

Mapping tool showing entry pathways into infrastructure careers (incl. EV installer/electrician), eligible federal/state funding sources, and the agencies that administer them. Helps state/local leaders align policy and funding to build a skilled workforce.

Standards developed by DOE’s Battery Workforce Initiative for creating registered apprenticeships in advanced-battery manufacturing. Covers safety, mixing, electrode prep, winding, welding, e-filling, notching, stacking, degassing/sealing, formation, and soft skills. Access: Request approval via NETL/BWI. No deviations allowed without prior DOL approval.