H.R. 4999: STEM Education and Skilled Technical Workforce for Fusion Act

This bill, known as the STEM Education and Skilled Technical Workforce for Fusion Act or the Fusion Workforce Act, aims to enhance education and workforce development in the field of fusion science and technology. Below is a detailed summary of the key components of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary goal is to support activities related to fusion education and the skilled workforce needed to advance fusion technologies in industries and government settings. The legislation focuses on developing, improving, and expanding educational programs and workforce training opportunities across various educational levels.

Funding and Awards

The bill allows the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Secretary of Energy to make awards to a variety of institutions and organizations that include:

• Institutions of higher education (including junior colleges)
• Nonprofit organizations
• Labor organizations
• National Laboratories

These awards can be used for research, development, and related activities focusing on innovative education and professional development in fusion-related fields.

Allocation of Funds

Funds awarded under the bill can support several specific activities, which include:

• Developing industry-relevant curricula and teaching modules related to fusion.
• Training and professional development programs for educators in fusion sciences.
• Identifying essential skills for careers in the fusion industry.
• Providing access to National Laboratories and other educational resources.
• Enhancing STEM education by incorporating fusion content.
• Supporting hands-on experiences for students at all levels.

Fusion Research Opportunities

The bill encourages the creation of more research opportunities for students and trainees in fusion science. It highlights initiatives like:

• Research experiences for undergraduates.
• Postdoctoral fellowships and graduate training programs.
• Informal STEM education programs.

Coordination Hub

To further enhance collaboration in fusion education and workforce development, the bill establishes a Fusion Skilled Technical Workforce and STEM Education Coordination Hub. This Hub will:

• Serve as a national and regional resource for addressing workforce development challenges.
• Facilitate curriculum sharing and best practices among educational institutions.
• Promote recruitment of underrepresented groups into fusion-related fields.
• Analyze trends in the domestic fusion workforce.

Industry Partnership Programs

The bill also includes provisions for pilot programs that allow partnerships with industry professionals who can provide education on fusion sciences. These programs may fund:

• Stipends for industry instructors.
• Training in teaching methodologies.
• Development of course materials.

Authorization of Appropriations

To fund the initiatives outlined in this bill, it authorizes appropriations of:

• $20 million annually for the NSF from 2026 to 2030.
• $10 million annually for the Department of Energy from 2026 to 2030.

Encouragement of Diversity and Inclusion

The bill emphasizes the importance of diversity within the skilled workforce for fusion. It mandates outreach to various groups, including:

• Hispanic-serving institutions.
• Historically Black colleges and universities.
• Tribal Colleges and Universities.

Implementation and Duration

The proposed programs and initiatives are planned for a duration of five years, with the possibility of extension based on performance evaluations.

Relevant Companies

• BKNG (Booking Holdings Inc.) - May be involved in corporate partnerships for educational programs related to fusion science.
• PLUG (Plug Power Inc.) - Could be impacted through development of fusion energy technologies and partnerships in educational programs.