Congressman Eric Sorensen of Illinois has introduced the STEM Pathways for the Future Act, aiming to expand access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers. The bill, backed by several House colleagues, instructs the National Science Foundation to create new grants supporting apprenticeship programs at community colleges, minority-serving institutions, and other non-traditional venues. Funds may be used to recruit participants, upgrade technology, and form partnerships with local industries. The legislation also proposes a regional STEM apprenticeship hub to match training with employer needs, and an interagency task force will review federal support for alternative STEM career paths.
“At a time when the Trump Administration is threatening the future of our scientific workforce and agencies like the NSF, we must take bold action to invest in the next generation of talent. This bill is about building opportunities for real people in real communities,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Not everyone needs a four-year degree to thrive in science, tech, and innovation. Our community colleges are ready to lead, and this bill gives them the support they need to help people launch meaningful careers.”
