WHEREAS, Utah's economic strength relies on a skilled workforce that meets the needs of emerging and foundational industries;WHEREAS, the nuclear, mining, and fiber optics industries provide high-wage, high-demand career opportunities that support energy independence, infrastructure development, and technological advancement in the state;WHEREAS, Utah employers in these industries report a growing need for workers with specialized technical skills and industry-recognized credentials;WHEREAS, the Utah State Board of Education and local education agencies oversee career and technical education programs that connect students with workforce-ready skills;WHEREAS, career and technical education programs in Utah schools already prepare students for employment through hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and credential-aligned instruction;WHEREAS, targeted instruction and certification pathways in nuclear technology, mining operations, and fiber optic installation and maintenance can lead directly to employment, including partial or full industry certifications; andWHEREAS, expanded access to these programs can strengthen Utah's workforce pipeline while providing students with clear, practical career options:NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah, the Governor concurring therein, encourages the Utah State Board of Education and local education agencies to create, expand, and offer instruction that prepares students for careers in nuclear, mining, and fiber optics fields.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages the development of coursework and training programs that lead to partial or full industry certifications, including certifications for electric lineworkers and other technical occupations within these industries.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages school-based career and technical education programs and the Catalyst Center to collaborate with industry partners to deliver relevant, hands-on instruction aligned with workforce demands.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages ongoing coordination between education providers and employers to ensure that Utah students gain the skills, credentials, and experience needed to succeed in these critical career fields.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be prepared and submitted to the State Board of Education and each local education agency in the state.