The Fusion Workforce Act seeks to bolster the United States' fusion energy sector by developing a robust and diverse skilled technical workforce and enhancing educational opportunities. It empowers the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to fund initiatives that advance fusion-related education and workforce development across all educational levels, from PreK-12 through higher education and professional training. The bill emphasizes supporting the retention and growth of a diverse workforce to meet the evolving needs of industry, academia, and government.

The NSF is authorized to provide awards for activities such as developing industry-oriented curricula, training teachers, identifying critical skills for commercial fusion, and integrating fusion content into STEM programs. It also encourages increased opportunities for fusion research experiences for students and postdocs through existing NSF programs. Furthermore, the NSF is directed to foster partnerships with nonprofit organizations, labor organizations, and industry to maximize the impact of these initiatives.

Concurrently, the DOE, through its Office of Science, may issue awards for internships, fellowships, apprenticeships, and other experiential learning opportunities in fusion. These funds can also support the acquisition and maintenance of state-of-the-art equipment and facilities essential for fusion research and workforce development, alongside professional development for educators and researchers. A pilot program is also established to bring private sector professionals into educational institutions for short-term appointments to teach fusion sciences and engineering.

A central component of the bill is the creation of a Fusion Skilled Technical Workforce and STEM Education Coordination Hub, led by a consortium of higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations. This Hub will serve as a national clearinghouse for relevant federal programs, disseminate model curricula and best practices, and facilitate post-education employment pathways. Its activities include coordinating with industry, supporting recruitment of underrepresented groups in STEM, and establishing a framework for ongoing data collection on the domestic fusion workforce.

The Hub is also tasked with developing career development programs for educators, facilitating public education and outreach, and identifying opportunities for cross-sector partnerships. Both the NSF and DOE are authorized to receive appropriations for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to carry out the provisions of this Act, with $20,000,000 annually for the NSF and $10,000,000 annually for the DOE.