NSHE Community Colleges Receive Workforce Funding to Address Nevada’s Skills Gap

GOED WINN fund investments will support industry-led workforce training programs

Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) community colleges secured funding to expand workforce training programs aimed at meeting Nevada’s demand for skilled workers in mining, manufacturing, healthcare, and more. The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) awarded roughly $2.7 million in funding through the Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada (WINN) fund to support these critical training initiatives.

“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 following programs received funding:

• Great Basin College – NORCAT Mine Skills Training Expansion:
  Secured just over $500,000 in funding to support the training of 500 workers in essential mine safety, technical roles, and certifications. This program aims to meet the workforce demands of regional employers like KG Mining, Barrick, and Lithium Americas, preparing workers for critical roles such as chemical technicians and battery recycling technicians.

• Western Nevada College – Fernley Advanced Manufacturing Training Center:
  Secured almost $600,000 in funding to help establish a workforce training hub in the Victory Logistics District, directly addressing regional labor shortages in advanced manufacturing and logistics. The center will expand access to training for dual enrollment students, adult learners, and English language learners, and provide certifications that lead to high-wage careers in these growing sectors.

• College of Southern Nevada – Westside Education & Training Center (WETC):
  Secured over $1.5 million in funding to enable CSN to offer accelerated training in key fields such as manufacturing, welding, IT, healthcare, and more. Located in one of Southern Nevada’s most underserved communities, WETC will also provide adult basic education and ESL programs, helping students earn GEDs while gaining industry certifications for better job opportunities.

“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.”

“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.”

TMCC also secured around $60,000 GOED WINN funds for their Logistics program that allows TMCC to continue to support the logistics sector and increase enrollment in their program.

“The Workforce Innovations for a New Nevada program is one of the most impactful tools we have at GOED towards economic diversification,” said Elaine Silverstone, GOED’s director of workforce development. “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 media inquiries or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Callahan at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.