U.S. Education Department Taps North Carolina Official for Key Workforce Training Initiative
Raleigh, N.C.
In a move that underscores the growing emphasis on workforce training, Dr. Andrea DeSantis of North Carolina’s Department of Commerce has been selected to contribute to a major federal initiative aimed at reforming workforce training. Appointed by the U.S. Department of Education, Dr. DeSantis will play a crucial role in the national rulemaking process for the new Workforce Pell grants as an alternate negotiator.
The committee, known as the Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-driven (AHEAD) Workforce Pell Committee, convened this week in Washington, D.C., drawing experts from various fields to shape the program’s framework. These new grants are designed to open up additional career training opportunities for students nationwide, marking a significant advance in workforce development efforts.
“North Carolina has a seat at the table for Workforce Pell, which is poised to empower our students and workers with the skills and credentials they need,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Assistant Secretary DeSantis brings valuable expertise in workforce education and innovative partnerships to this important task.”
The Workforce Pell program aims to enable students eligible for federal Pell grants to use them for short-term training programs lasting eight to 15 weeks. These programs must align with high-demand, high-wage sectors and contribute towards a certificate or degree. The negotiation phase is vital for determining eligibility criteria and ensuring the programs meet employers’ needs.
Representing North Carolina, Dr. DeSantis stands as the only head of a state workforce agency involved in these negotiations. She serves as an alternate for Rachael Stephens Parker from Maryland, ensuring that diverse stakeholder perspectives are incorporated into the decision-making process. Other negotiators include representatives from student bodies, employers, and higher education institutions.
“Assistant Secretary DeSantis is a national leader in workforce development, and her engagement in this national rulemaking process will make Workforce Pell more effective,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Many of the most in-demand jobs require short-term training or credentialing, and Workforce Pell will allow people to access, like never before, those valued training opportunities that lead to great careers.”
Since 2024, Dr. DeSantis has led the Division of Workforce Solutions (DWS) within the North Carolina Department of Commerce, overseeing federal programs and collaborating with local workforce boards. Her extensive background includes roles as a Policy Advisor on workforce issues for former Governor Roy Cooper and as a Senior Workforce Development Analyst.
Dr. DeSantis holds academic credentials from the College of Charleston, the University of Cincinnati, and a Ph.D. from N.C. State University in Educational, Leadership, Policy, and Human Development.
Governor Stein has also instructed the Governor’s Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships to propose ways to effectively implement Workforce Pell grants in North Carolina. This council aims to enhance job access through apprenticeships, industry-recognized credentials, and increased employer engagement.
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