State of Montana Newsroom
Gov. Gianforte Highlights Workforce Training Opportunities at Great Falls College
GREAT FALLS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte yesterday visited Great Falls College to highlight workforce training programs that prepare Montanans for in demand careers and support the state’s growing economy as part of the 406 JOBS initiative.
“Great Falls College is helping Montanans gain the skills they need to succeed in a good-paying job and supporting employers looking for a highly qualified workforce,” Gov. Gianforte said. “By expanding access to hands-on training in high demand fields, we’re strengthening our workforce and helping more Montanans start or continue their career right here at home.”
Gov. Gianforte visiting Great Falls College with Dr. Stephanie Erdmann, CEO and dean of Great Falls College
During the visit, the governor met with faculty and staff and toured the college to view career-focused programs that support Montana’s workforce needs. The visit included viewing the welding program, construction trades, flooring installation, and the college’s commercial driver license (CDL) training program which features a CDL truck and simulator. The governor also visited the school’s dental clinic and learned more about the dental hygienist program, the only program of its kind in Montana.
Great Falls College offers career-focused programs to prepare students for jobs in skilled trades, healthcare, and transportation, offering one- and two-year degree programs and a seven-week, industry-led structural welding program. The programs are designed to meet regional and statewide workforce needs while connecting students to real world training opportunities that lead directly to employment.
“It was a privilege showcasing the work Great Falls College to Governor Gianforte, First Lady Susan Gianforte, and state Superintendent Susie Hedalen,” said Dr. Stephanie Erdmann, CEO and dean of Great Falls College. “Great Falls College prides itself on working with industry to fill workforce voids and helping our students to find good-paying jobs in high-demand fields.”
Highlighting the governor’s focus on work-based learning and boosting the workforce, Gov. Gianforte discussed his 406 JOBS initiative which launched in August 2025 to modernize Montana’s workforce system and ensure it is responsive to the needs of workers and employers. The initiative brings together state agencies, education partners, and the private sector to break down barriers, align resources, and create clear pathways from education and training to employment.
Last August, the Montana Department of Labor & Industry released a report showing that more than 100,000 working age Montanans are not employed and not seeking work. Through 406 JOBS, the state is expanding work based learning opportunities, strengthening apprenticeship pathways, and improving coordination between workforce and education programs to help Montanans access good-paying jobs. The initiative also focuses on removing barriers to employment and ensuring workforce training aligns with the needs of Montana’s industries and local communities.
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