Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026

This bill aims to significantly expand educational and career opportunities for veterans by integrating emerging technologies into existing high technology education programs. It amends title 38, United States Code, specifically section 3699C, to explicitly include "emerging technology" alongside "high technology" in the program's scope. Furthermore, it directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish clear criteria for identifying critical technologies, such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing , that will be treated as emerging technologies for program purposes. The legislation mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to collaborate with critical stakeholders , including private sector employers and educational institutions, to pinpoint specific high-growth industries and occupations driven by emerging technologies. Concurrently, the VA must identify the appropriate educational courses that will equip veterans with the necessary skills for these fields. These identified emerging technologies, courses, industries, and occupations must then be prominently displayed and promoted by the VA, Department of Defense, and Department of Labor through their respective websites and transition services to ensure veterans are aware of these opportunities. To maintain relevance and responsiveness to market changes, the VA, in consultation with the Department of Labor, will determine which technologies qualify as emerging. They are also tasked with updating the list of relevant industries and occupations on a quarterly basis to adapt to evolving market conditions and demand. This proactive approach ensures that the educational opportunities remain aligned with current and future job market needs, though this specific section establishing critical stakeholder partnerships and dissemination is scheduled to sunset on September 30, 2027 .