FUEL FOR THE FUTURE 

As 2024 draws to a close, we at Accelerate Montana take immense pride in reflecting on a year filled with meaningful achievements....

Accelerate Montana announced today that it has been selected by Microsoft as a continuing fellow as part of its TechSpark program to continue to foster digital inclusion through the expansion of training and workforce development programs in the technology sector in Montana tribal communities. This initiative addresses the persistent challenges of limited access to technology education, high-speed internet, and career opportunities in Montana's tribal communities. By expandin

Accelerate Montana's Job Site Ready program is honored to be recognized as a DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant recipient for its efforts to...

The GitLab Foundation announced nine inaugural grantees as part of its $3 million Green Jobs for Economic Opportunity Fund . Launched in...

This month, we are excited to feature Job Site Ready graduate Michelle Cura and learn more about her experiences as a construction trades professional. How did you get started in the construction trades? Michelle: I never really thought I would be involved in any facet of the construction trade. I always considered it a very manly world and very intimidating. My focus was more on carpentry but more so the woodworking and furniture making aspect. I started taking carpentry

WASHINGTON, DC — The Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA),...

Accelerate Montana is thrilled to announce the renewal of a $50,000 grant via Microsoft’s TechSpark program. With this grant, Accelerate Montana will continue to foster digital inclusion through the expansion of training and workforce development programs in the technology sector for Montana Tribal communities. Accelerate Montana, offers a broad range of economic and workforce development programs to benefit Montana businesses and individuals, promoting inclusive economic pro

Accelerate Montana is proud to announce the exceptional achievements of Return to the Blanket, a compelling film directed by Amanda Bearmedicine (Rapid Training Production Assistant PA Graduate) and co-produced by Lynn-Wood Fields and Joseph Grady. This impactful short film recently received first place in the Indigenous Challenge at the Big Sky Film Festival, highlighting its recognition as one of the winning films from the 2023 Indigenous Filmmaker Challenge run by AudPop,

Linda Forlizzi is a career changer who, fueled by a desire to make the most of her extra time, stumbled into learning to code. Linda completed the front-end and back-end bootcamps here at Promineo Tech via Nashua Community College. She’s currently building an app called “What’s In My Freezer?” which—you guessed it—helps you keep tabs on what you’ve got in cold storage! Language and technology love leads to code “I originally went online trying to learn Spanish and I ended up

“Right now Construction in Montana is booming and that's going to be going on for quite a long time,” Job Site Ready (JSR) is designed to provide you with essential skills for entry-level positions in the construction industry. The program is divided into two main components. 30 hours of online modules, providing a flexible learning environment that can be tailored to your schedule and pace. 15 hours of practical, onsite training offered at various locations across Montana, i

Today, SkillsFWD — a new initiative on a mission to catalyze a more equitable skills-based hiring ecosystem — announced inaugural grants...

“If you throw a dart at Montana, wherever it sticks as a plumber and electrician you will have work.” Clean water needs to flow through our homes and our businesses. Waste needs to be safely carried away. Without plumbers, public health and sanitation would be at risk. By choosing this trade, you become a vital part of any community, serving a fundamental need that impacts the life of every single citizen. Exploring Opportunities with Plumbing “The opportunity to become yo

WASHINGTON, DC — The Biden-Harris administration, through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA),...

Accelerate Montana is thrilled to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of a grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. This grant, totaling $400,000, will enable Accelerate Montana to continue their work aimed at empowering young individuals in rural and Indigenous communities with valuable workforce development opportunities. The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, during its September board meeting, approved a series of grants totaling more than $24 milli

In the Spring of 2022, Accelerate Montana (AMT) was made aware of a shortage of CAD (Computer-aided Design) drafters and technicians...

MISSOULA – The University of Montana’s enrollment ascent continues, driven by a 3.7% increase in total student headcount – the largest annual growth rate in 14 years. In total, 10,327 students are enrolled at UM this fall, which is 372 students higher than 2022. “With the largest single year of percentage gain in enrollment since 2009, the University of Montana is firmly ingrained in a period of growth,” said UM President Seth Bodnar. “By combining a record student retention

Accelerate Montana and Microsoft are to work together to ensure regional digital inclusion, job creation, and technological innovation in Montana – Accelerate Montana announced today that it will be working with Microsoft TechSpark to foster this work. Accelerate Montana the portfolio of economic and workforce development programs affiliated with the University of Montana, serves as a vital resource for the people of Montana by fostering a strong workforce and enhancing econo

"I just graduated from MSU-Great Falls in this last class and I got hired immediately and thought it was tailor made for me. I do think it's also a program that's great for different walks of life." Whether you're fresh out of high school or looking for a career change later in life, obtaining a CDL can provide you with endless possibilities. The demand for skilled truck drivers is ever-growing, and companies are actively seeking qualified individuals to join their teams.

"I worked for a non-profit for about eight years and I felt like I wanted to do something different. I kind of hit my cap in terms of growing in the organization. " Whether you're a complete beginner or have some coding experience, Montana Code School's expert instructors will guide you through hands-on projects and real-world scenarios, ensuring that you gain practical skills that are highly sought after by employers. Opportunity for a Lucrative Career "I wanted the opp

"I was scared that there was no Indigenous representation. The next thing you know, I met two other directors from Browning, Montana and it made me want to just do it, because if they can do it, why can't I do it and do the same thing? It gave me a voice!" With an increasing demand for diverse stories and voices, there is a growing need for indigenous individuals like Amanda Bearmedicine to join the film and television industry. By taking on this role, Amanda is contributin