This EDA investment supports the baker technical institute (BTI) with developing and implementing an infrastructure workforce development program to assist incarcerated individuals in good…

The Economic Development Administration awarded Baker Technical Institute $1,138,277 on October 1, 2025, under the Economic Adjustment Assistance program (CFDA 11.307) to develop and implement an infrastructure workforce development program in Baker City, Oregon.

The project trains incarcerated individuals in good behavioral standing from Snake River Correctional Institution in Malheur County, Oregon, along with recently released inmates from other correctional facilities and other candidates in heavy equipment operations and related infrastructure skills. Funding supports the purchase of mobile training equipment, hiring of recruitment and screening staff, job placement assistance, and BTI certification upon completion. Wrap-around services are provided through partnerships with private and public entities. The program is designed to increase regional capacity, create jobs, and strengthen the regional economy.

The period of performance runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027.

This EDA investment supports the baker technical institute (BTI) with developing and implementing an infrastructure workforce development program to assist incarcerated individuals in good behavioral standing, from the snake river correctional institution located in malheur county, oregon. Candidates will also include recently released inmates from other correctional facilities, as well as others. The project will fund the purchase of mobile training equipment, the hiring of recruitment and screening trainees, and provide job placement assistance. In addition, completion and BTI certification of training will be provided with wrap around services from other private and public partners. Once completed, the project will help increase the region?s capacity, create jobs, and strengthen the regional economy.