Trade Jobs Pipeline: West Virginia’s “Heavy Metal Summer Experience” is sending recent grads into union training for sheet metal, electricians, and plumbers—aimed at paychecks right after graduation. Semiconductor Expansion: Peoria City Council approved Amkor’s $32.5M land purchase for a $7B campus, with officials projecting ~3,000 high-wage jobs by 2028, while residents demand more transparency on water, chemicals, and emergency planning. Talent Retention & Skills: Insurance leaders warn of an “experience shortage,” saying progression, workload, and pay—not a lack of people—are driving exits. AI & Work: Anthropic pledges $200M to study AI’s job impact, while Mozambique’s labor minister urges responsible AI use to protect decent work and reduce inequality. Immigration Enforcement: South Africa plans fines up to R100,000 for employers hiring undocumented workers and will add 10,000 labor inspectors. Youth Employment: Prince George’s County (MD) launches a district youth jobs program with training and paid roles for ages 15–24. Wage Policy: UK National Living Wage rises, bringing payroll and compliance updates for millions of workers. Career Acceleration: India’s JGBS and Chetak Foundation launch an immersive transport-operations course, and Novatr rolls out a BIM Professional Program v.2026 for AEC careers. Labor Market Signals: South Korea’s employment fell for the first time in 17 months, with manufacturing and construction hit hardest.