Connecticut Partners with RAISE US to Enhance AI Workforce Skills

Connecticut is making significant strides in preparing its workforce for the upcoming centrality of artificial intelligence (AI) in the economy by joining the RAISE US initiative, a coalition aimed at workforce development in the realm of emerging technologies. Governor Ned Lamont announced the partnership on June 29, 2026, emphasizing its importance in ensuring that the state’s workers are equipped with necessary skills to thrive in a transformative job market.

The collaboration is designed to address the evolving landscape of job opportunities driven by advancements in AI. Through partnerships between government, businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations, Connecticut aims to create a sustainable workforce infrastructure that prepares workers for careers enhanced by AI technologies. Lamont's administration is proactive, having enacted legislation the previous month to launch new training programs focused on equipping the local workforce with skills pertinent to the development and application of AI solutions.

Governor Lamont stated, “AI is going to reshape the world, and we need to ensure that Connecticut workers and Connecticut jobs benefit from these breakthroughs and do not get left behind.” This conviction aligns with the goals of RAISE US, which was co-founded by former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and former Governor Eric Holcomb of Indiana. Raimondo emphasizes that while America has a technology strategy for leading global AI competition, it is missing a coherent strategy for its people. She asserts, “We cannot lead without one.” This calls significant attention to the importance of developing a workforce capable of navigating the changes and opportunities presented by AI advancements.

The implications of this initiative for the procurement community are considerable. As states invest in workforce development, procurement professionals should recognize that future contracts will increasingly prioritize candidates with relevant skills in AI and emerging technologies. This shift encourages a more competitive bidding process where knowledge and expertise in AI-related areas will be vital qualifiers for vendors. Additionally, companies that specialize in AI training and educational technology stand to benefit from this development, as state-funded programs may create new opportunities for contracting and partnerships.

Collaboration emerges as a recurring theme in the workforce readiness strategy articulated by RAISE US. The initiative underscores a holistic approach involving multiple stakeholders—government agencies, educational institutions, and the private sector all play crucial roles in shaping effective training solutions. As these partnerships deepen, there will be a heightened demand for services that facilitate skilled training programs that align with active projects requiring AI competencies.

Overall, Connecticut’s partnership with RAISE US reflects an awareness of the rapid changes in the job market and the necessity of preparing the workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. The initiative aligns closely with the ongoing trends seen nationally where states aim to leverage technology advancements to ensure that their workers are not just surviving but thriving in a new economic environment. Through this strategic approach, the state seeks to transform its technological landscape while also creating a robust employment framework that meets the needs of its future workforce.

• Connecticut is collaborating with RAISE US to prepare workforce for AI-related jobs.
• Governor Ned Lamont emphasizes a need for local workers to benefit from AI advancements.
• The initiative may influence future procurement requirements for technology contracts in Connecticut.
• Companies specializing in AI training could find new opportunities in state-funded programs.
• The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration among agencies, employers, and nonprofits in workforce development.
• Former Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasizes the urgency of developing a coherent workforce strategy.
• Last month, Connecticut launched new training programs focused on AI-related skills for workers.