# U.S. Department of Education Approves Workforce Pell Grants in North Carolina

The U.S. Department of Education has approved six new Workforce Pell Grant programs at Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, enabling eligible students to access federal Pell funds for short-term workforce training in high-demand sectors including firefighting, electrical work, welding, and healthcare. This federal approval supports state workforce development efforts by expanding affordable credential programs aligned with labor market needs, thereby enhancing access to skilled professions without significant student debt.

- This initiative signals increased federal investment in workforce development through education funding, creating procurement opportunities for training providers and educational institutions.
- Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on short-term credential programs that meet employer demand in critical sectors, which may influence future contract requirements and funding priorities.
- Organizations involved in workforce training and educational services in North Carolina can leverage this approval to expand program offerings and partnerships with community colleges.
- This development highlights the importance of aligning procurement strategies with state and federal workforce goals to support talent pipelines in high-demand industries.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 26, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Education (ED)
- State of North Carolina
- Forsyth Technical Community College

### Key Quotes
> These programs are fast, affordable, and aligned with real workforce needs. This approval represents a commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening the Tar Heel State’s talent pipeline.
> — Linda McMahon, U.S. Secretary of Education

> Investing in stellar community colleges like Forsyth Tech strengthens our state’s workforce pipeline, supports employers in high-demand fields, and expands access to high-skill, high-wage jobs.
> — Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina

> Workforce Pell opens a door for people who have always had the talent and drive but not the means, and once they're through it, we'll be here to help them keep climbing.
> — Janet Spriggs, President of Forsyth Technical Community College

### Sources
- [U.S. Department of Education Approves Workforce Pell Grant Programs in North Carolina | U.S. Department of Education](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-approves-workforce-pell-grant-programs-north-carolina) - ED