July 2, 2026
The Department of War today announced the launch of
the Build Freedom workforce development initiative. Under Secretary of
War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey will present a $10
million investment to skilled trades advocate Mike Rowe to support the
mikeroweWORKS Foundation Scholarship program.
"On behalf of everyone at the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, I'm honored to
accept this donation from BuildFreedom.US. Every penny will be spent on
training the next generation of skilled workers for a long list of
essential jobs - specifically the hundreds of thousands of good jobs
currently open in the defense industrial base," said Mike Rowe, CEO of
the mikeroweWORKS Foundation. "Closing America's skills gap has become a
matter of national security, and initiatives like BuildFreedom.US are
precisely what our country needs to meet the demands of a rapidly
evolving workforce. I'm excited to participate in this effort and
looking forward to helping thousands of Americans get the training they
need to start a meaningful career in the skilled trades."
Created through the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for
Industrial Base Policy's Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS)
Program, BuildFreedom.US is a national initiative designed to address
critical talent shortages across the defense industrial base. The
program unites government, industry, and educational institutions to
increase awareness of purpose-driven careers and provide scholarships
for Americans pursuing high-paying, AI-proof jobs in the skilled trades.
"America's strength has always been forged by people who build,
manufacture, and innovate," said Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of
War for Acquisition and Sustainment. "BuildFreedom.US will bridge talent
with opportunity to build meaningful careers, ensuring our workforce is
ready for the challenges of tomorrow."
This announcement marks a significant milestone in expanding workforce
pathways for students, young adults, veterans, and transitioning service
members. By empowering the next generation of American builders,
makers, and innovators, the Department of War aims to directly bolster
the nation's manufacturing capacity, economic resilience, and long-term
national security.
Posts
