Immersive Technology for the American Workforce Act of 2025

This bill mandates the Secretary of Labor to create a competitive grant program within one year of enactment, providing funding to eligible entities for immersive technology education and training services. These grants are designed to support the creation, alignment, and implementation of career pathways that utilize immersive technology to equip individuals with skills for employment and economic self-sufficiency. Eligible entities are defined as industry or sector partnerships, which must include representatives from institutions like community colleges or area career and technical education schools. Grant funds must be used for programs that increase training for students, including members of the Armed Forces and veterans, to facilitate their entry into in-demand industry sectors or occupations . Programs must also be accessible to individuals with barriers to employment, adhering to disability access requirements, and can include training for instructors in the use of immersive technology. Grants will be awarded for a period of up to five years, with no subsequent grants for the same purpose. Priority for grant awards will be given to entities that partner with employers committed to hiring program graduates, include covered community colleges or area career and technical education schools, or demonstrate alignment with existing workforce development plans. Additional priorities include meeting employer needs, targeting specific in-demand sectors, retraining workers from declining industries, serving individuals with employment barriers, or assisting rural communities. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $50,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2035 to carry out these provisions, and requires reporting, evaluation, and the establishment of best practices by the Secretary of Labor.