Caterpillar Inc. is celebrating its centennial by investing in the workforce of the future, pledging $100 million over the next five years to support education and training in advanced technology and skilled trades.
The Irving, Texas-based manufacturer announced the commitment Monday, positioning it as a key part of its long-term strategy to address shifting labor demands as the global economy undergoes rapid digital transformation.
“As part of our centennial celebration, we are excited to empower the workforce of tomorrow,” said Jim Umpleby, Caterpillar chairman and CEO. “This pledge reinforces our commitment to building a world where technology and human creativity can work hand in hand to create a more resilient workforce.”
The funding will support training initiatives in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics maintenance, digital modeling, and automation, as well as soft skills. The company cited data from The Future of Jobs Report 2025, which projects 170 million new jobs in emerging tech sectors over the next five years.
Expanding existing workforce initiatives
Caterpillar said the pledge builds on its existing programs aimed at reducing the skills gap in manufacturing, including:
- ThinkBIG, a two-year program that pays students while training them to become service technicians
- STEM outreach programs that introduce K-12 students to careers in manufacturing
- The Global Dealer Technician Challenge, a competition that promotes skilled trades in high-tech fields
“This pledge, our first of its kind, reflects our dedication to collaborating with global stakeholders to devise the best training solutions,” said Jaime Mineart, chief technology officer at Caterpillar and executive sponsor of the pledge.
Global celebration and community investment
As part of its 100-year anniversary, Caterpillar is also holding a series of local celebrations around the world and making charitable donations through the Caterpillar Foundation at each tour stop. The Foundation’s support will focus on community development and sustainability initiatives.
“Whether it is Caterpillar investing in the future of work or employees volunteering in their communities, the company’s culture has always been about supporting the places where we live and work,” said Asha Varghese, head of corporate social responsibility.
With 2024 revenues of $64.8 billion, Caterpillar operates in more than 180 countries and employs tens of thousands of workers across the construction, mining, and energy sectors.
