Meta launches US workforce program for data centre construction jobs

Meta announced a free training initiative called “America’s Workforce Academy” to prepare U.S. workers for data‑centre construction. The company will invest $115 million in the first year and offer a four‑week program that guarantees job placements with Meta‑partner construction firms. The pilot launches in 2026 in Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio and Texas and is coordinated with the National Urban League, the Associated Builders and Contractors, CBRE, the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and several local economic development groups.

Meta President and Vice‑Chair Dina Powell McCormick said the program aims to “lay the foundations and lay the fiber that secures American strength in this new age.” ABC President Michael Bellaman called it “an unbelievable opportunity” for people without prior experience to gain skilled‑trade careers. The effort responds to a projected shortage of 2.1 million skilled‑trade jobs by 2030 and follows similar pledges from Google ($50 million) and BlackRock ($100 million) to boost U.S. trade‑skill training.

The U.S. currently has about 4,149 active and 2,788 planned data centres, which industry estimates could create 5.4 million jobs and generate $27 billion in tax revenue over the next decade.