Nevada’s community colleges have received approximately $2.7 million in funding from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) through the Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada (WINN) fund. The investment is intended to expand workforce training programs that address skills shortages in key sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and healthcare.
“This $2.7 million investment represents a strategic partnership that directly addresses Nevada’s workforce challenges,” said Board of Regents Chair Byron Brooks. “These expanded training programs will not only help fill critical skills gaps in mining, manufacturing, and healthcare, but will also create pathways for Nevadans to access high-wage careers right here at home. We’re grateful for GOED’s continued partnership in building a workforce that meets both today’s needs and tomorrow’s opportunities.”
The funding will support several initiatives across the state:
Great Basin College has been awarded just over $500,000 to expand its NORCAT Mine Skills Training program. This initiative aims to train 500 workers in mine safety and technical roles, meeting the needs of employers such as KG Mining, Barrick, and Lithium Americas.
Western Nevada College will receive nearly $600,000 to help establish an advanced manufacturing training center in Fernley’s Victory Logistics District. The center is designed to address regional labor shortages by providing training and certifications for dual enrollment students, adult learners, and English language learners.
The College of Southern Nevada secured more than $1.5 million for its Westside Education & Training Center (WETC). The funds will allow CSN to offer accelerated training in fields like manufacturing, welding, IT, and healthcare. WETC will also provide adult basic education and ESL programs so students can earn GEDs while obtaining industry certifications.
“These investments help to make sure Nevadans have access to the skills needed for careers that support our state’s economic growth,” said Board of Regents Workforce Committee Chair Heather Brown. “Our community colleges are playing an important role in bridging the skills gap and building a more skilled workforce for Nevada’s future.”
Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) also received about $60,000 from GOED WINN funds to continue supporting its logistics program and increase student enrollment.
“We’re proud to be part of the solution to Nevada’s workforce challenges,” said Chancellor Matt McNair. “These programs give students in high-demand fields the tools they need to succeed, whether they’re just starting out or advancing their careers.”
Elaine Silverstone, GOED’s director of workforce development, commented on the broader impact: “The Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada program is one of the most impactful tools we have at GOED towards economic diversification. One aim of our work is to bring more options towards high-wage career pathways so that all Nevadans can expect to be well-qualified for work in their home state. We deeply value our partnership with NSHE and our community college ecosystem across the state. I’m so pleased to advocate for programs like those announced here and to support the great work our education leaders are driving towards this goal.”
For further information or media inquiries regarding these initiatives or other related matters within NSHE's scope of activity or governance structure, contact Elizabeth Callahan at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.