Governor Josh Stein announced the launch of Careers Electric, a national initiative from the Siemens Foundation that begins in North Carolina. The program aims to expand access to electrical training and establish clear career pathways in the electrical field.
“North Carolina’s strong workforce ecosystem, business-friendly climate, and surging demand for electrification position our state to lead the nation in building the skilled electrical workforce of the future,” said Governor Josh Stein. “As our energy, technology, and manufacturing sectors expand, this partnership opens the door for more North Carolinians to access high-quality training and secure good-paying careers that support families and strengthen our economy.”
David Etzwiler, CEO of the Siemens Foundation, stated: “For years we’ve heard about a widening skills gap and growing worker shortages in skilled trades. Careers Electric provides a model to solve this – validating the solution in one state, then working together to scale it nationwide. Careers Electric is about opening doors into high-demand, high-impact electrical careers that offer purpose-driven work, financial security, and a strong foothold in the middle class. Together, we will ensure innovation creates opportunities for workers across America and creates real economic opportunity.”
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System added: “North Carolina is creating thousands of high-quality jobs that do not require a four-year degree. Our community colleges are proud to partner with employers and initiatives like Careers Electric to prepare students for these opportunities and to ensure our state has the skilled workforce needed to support continued economic growth.”
The initiative is supported by $9.25 million from Siemens Foundation with participation from partners including the North Carolina Governor’s Office. The goal is to train 25,000 people in North Carolina over ten years for jobs related to energy and infrastructure.
Governor Stein also held a roundtable with representatives from companies such as Siemens USA, ABB, Caterpillar, Duke Energy as well as industry groups like National Association of Manufacturers and NC Chamber of Commerce. He emphasized his administration’s goal of doubling apprenticeships in North Carolina by encouraging employer involvement.
Recently at an NC Strong Update event Governor Stein shared plans to allocate discretionary funds toward NC Career Launch—an effort aimed at helping businesses develop more youth apprenticeship programs especially in fields such as electrification.
In December last year, the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships released its annual report detailing strategies designed to increase access to quality jobs across North Carolina—including efforts focused on doubling statewide apprenticeships through employer engagement and coordination among stakeholders.
In January 2026 Site Selection Magazine recognized North Carolina as its Top State for Workforce Development due partly to its robust apprenticeship programs.
