NASA has committed about $10.5 million to launch seven new workforce hubs across the United States, including a Utah-led aerospace skilled technical workforce hub based in Cedar City. Southern Utah University will lead the Utah hub under NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement Next Gen STEM Project, with the programme designed to strengthen the pipeline into technical careers needed for space exploration and aerospace manufacturing.
The initiative links high schools, community colleges and industry partners in a statewide model aimed at creating clearer pathways into machinist, electrical, welding and advanced technician roles. It also formalises employer coordination through validated skills and hiring agreements, with thousands of students and educators expected to take part in Utah. NASA’s broader hub network is intended to address persistent shortages in skilled technical roles across the aerospace sector while building structured training routes for students from career and technical education into industry jobs.