Meta invests $115M to train data center workers

Meta is investing $115 million in a new workforce training program called "America's Workforce Academy" to prepare workers for jobs in data center construction. The initiative, which guarantees employment to graduates, will launch in Louisiana, Ohio, Indiana, and Texas this year. No prior experience is required, and participants will receive verified credentials in fields such as electrical work, mechanical systems, and plumbing. The program is part of Meta's broader effort to address a nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople needed to build and operate data centers, which are critical for powering AI technologies. Meta's earlier fiber technician training program, Level-Up, received 35,000 applications in its first week. The company has committed to investing $600 billion in U.S. infrastructure and jobs over the next three years to support its AI ambitions. The rapid expansion of data centers has also sparked public opposition in some communities, citing concerns over power grid strain, environmental impact, and economic benefits.