~ AURORA/WHEAT RIDGE - Governor Jared Polis, along with leaders from various states, gathered at the NAF Conference in Aurora today to discuss the importance of expanding educational opportunities for high school students in STEM fields. The goal is to equip students with the necessary skills for future careers and contribute to a strong and thriving workforce in Colorado.

During his speech, Governor Polis emphasized the state's commitment to preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow. He stated that Colorado is home to a robust and growing STEM workforce, and it is crucial to provide students with the resources they need to fill in-demand jobs.

Later in the day, Governor Polis visited two recipients of the Opportunity Now Grant, which is managed by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). These visits showcased investments made towards talent development in healthcare, aerospace engineering, and quantum technologies.

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At Lutheran Hospital, Governor Polis met with Intermountain Health staff who piloted the Pathfinders Program. This program received a $1.9 million seed grant from the Opportunity Now Colorado grant program in April 2024. It supports healthcare job seekers by providing upfront tuition coverage and job placement assistance. The governor praised this initiative for its efforts in building a stronger healthcare workforce.

Governor Polis also visited Red Rocks Community College, where he toured Warren Tech's equipment and labs used for teaching aerospace engineering courses. These facilities provide hands-on learning opportunities for students to gain skills in the aerospace and quantum industries. Red Rocks Community College received $1,219,365 in Opportunity Now grants to serve as a strategic partner in developing skills training programs.

In an interview at Red Rocks Community College, Governor Polis expressed his belief that initiatives like these better prepare future healthcare workers to provide quality care for all Coloradans while earning a good living.

The NAF Conference provided an excellent platform for leaders like Governor Polis to discuss ways of expanding educational opportunities in STEM fields. With investments and initiatives like the Opportunity Now Grant, Colorado is taking significant steps towards building a strong and thriving workforce for the future.

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