Mitchell Technical College has been awarded a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration, announced on September 11, 2024. This funding will support a $12 million expansion project that includes the construction of a new underground cable equipment training facility, which will span approximately 23,000 square feet. The facility is expected to create around 75 jobs upon completion, with construction slated to begin in May or June 2025. This initiative is part of a broader Energy Expansion Plan that encompasses five components aimed at enhancing workforce development in the manufacturing sector. Local funds amounting to $3 million will match the federal grant, demonstrating community support for the project. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo highlighted the significance of strengthening the manufacturing workforce through such investments. Additionally, the project is being funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019, further emphasizing the government's commitment to economic development in the region [0c558b5d].