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CEDAR PARK, Texas – A nearly $6.6 million federal grant will help Central Texans affected by layoffs and economic changes return to work faster through employment opportunities, paid apprenticeships and targeted training in high-demand industries.

Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) is partnering with Adaptive Construction Solutions (ACS), recipient of a $6,593,357 award from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), to expand reemployment opportunities across its nine-county service area. The initiative prioritizes workers' existing skills and experience, providing additional training only when needed.

The three-year initiative is one of just 20 projects selected nationwide through the Department of Labor's Rapid Reskill Dislocated Worker Grants program, which awarded $95.5 million across 17 states. The award builds on ACS's successful implementation of an earlier National Dislocated Worker Grant, which helped establish a foundation for connecting displaced workers with employers seeking skilled talent.

When someone loses a job, they shouldn't have to start their career over," said Paul Fletcher, CEO of WSRCA. "Many workers already have valuable experience and skills that employers need. This investment allows us to build on those strengths, connect people with new opportunities and help them move into rewarding careers while supporting the businesses driving our regional economy."

Connecting Workers to High-Demand Careers

The initiative will serve dislocated workers across Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano and Williamson counties, with an emphasis on transitioning military personnel and military spouses.

Priority industries include semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defense, construction and skilled trades, logistics and energy. The program will also prepare workers for AI-enabled occupations and help employers adopt emerging technologies.

The program focuses on four objectives: engaging workers within 30 days of layoff notification or job loss, developing individualized reemployment plans, providing short-term training when necessary and connecting participants with employment, Registered Apprenticeships or other paid work-based learning opportunities within six months of enrollment.

"Losing a job can create uncertainty, but finding the next opportunity shouldn't have to be complicated," said Diane Cook, Chief Operating Officer of WSRCA. "We're focused on helping people put their existing skills to work, connecting them with employers who are hiring and providing additional training when needed. The goal is simple: help people return to work faster and build careers with long-term potential."

Building a Stronger Regional Workforce

WSRCA will leverage its existing Rapid Response services, career centers and employer relationships to identify and support eligible workers. ACS, a national Registered Apprenticeship intermediary, will contribute its expertise in apprenticeship sponsorship, employer-driven training and workforce development.

Together, the organizations will help businesses strengthen their talent pipelines while creating opportunities for workers to earn wages, develop industry-recognized skills and pursue long-term careers. The partnership will also support employers in adopting emerging technologies and developing training aligned with changing industry needs.

Employers across Central Texas interested in hiring veterans, military spouses or other dislocated workers through Registered Apprenticeships are encouraged to connect with ACS to explore partnership opportunities and available program resources. Additional program details, including enrollment opportunities and employer participation, will be announced as implementation plans are finalized.

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About Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA)

WSRCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community partnership and the certified workforce authority for the nine-county Rural Capital Area of Central Texas, which includes Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Llano, and Williamson counties. WSRCA strengthens regional prosperity by connecting people, employers, and opportunities through no-cost services such as career coaching, training in high-demand fields, child care tuition scholarships, hiring events, and labor market insights. By equipping residents with skills for career success and providing employers with tailored workforce solutions, WSRCA helps ensure the region remains competitive, resilient, and ready for growth.

About Adaptive Construction Solutions

Adaptive Construction Solutions, Inc. (ACS) is a national Registered Apprenticeship intermediary and workforce development organization that helps employers build, implement, and scale apprenticeship programs. ACS provides apprenticeship sponsorship, technical assistance, training, workforce development, and compliance solutions that connect employers with skilled talent while creating pathways to high-quality careers for American workers.