Rural Alaska communities targeted by the Denali Commission for construction projects can now apply for financial assistance to train residents to build, maintain and operate those facilities with money being distributed through the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Rural communities are eligible for up to $25,000 in Denali Training Fund financial assistance through DOL's Workforce Investment Office.

"The Denali Training Fund will ensure jobs for local residents in construction, maintenance, and operation of public facilities," Commissioner of Labor Ed Flanagan said. "Any public or private agency capable of providing or facilitating training on Denali Commission projects can apply."

The Denali Commission's mission is to provide critical utilities, infrastructure, and economic support throughout Alaska. The Commission established the Denali Training Fund to increase the skills of local residents in rural communities to enable them to work on these infrastructure projects, while at the same time increase their long-term employability.

In addition to the Denali Training Fund, DOL is administering nearly $1 million in financial assistance from the Denali Commission, including:

• $75,000 to Alaska Vocational and Technical Center (AVTEC) for bulk fuel tank farm operators training;
• $250,000 to AVTEC for building maintenance and repair apprenticeship program;
• $250,000 to the Associated General Contractors for career pathways in construction-related fields;
• $200,000 to Alaska Works Partnership for apprenticeship recruitment and outreach in rural Alaska; and
• $200,000 to Alaska Native Coalition for Employment and Training to reduce employment barriers confronting rural residents in the workplace.