Meta celebrated the inaugural graduating class of its America’s Workforce Academy (AWA) in Indianapolis on Wednesday, August 6, marking the first graduating class in the nation for the tuition-free program. More than 55 students earned industry credentials, hands-on technical training, and guaranteed job placements in high-demand artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure fields. Meta created the $115 million nationwide initiative to train thousands of workers for skilled trades required to build and maintain digital infrastructure, including data centers, power generation, and grid modernization. Participants require no prior experience and are paid while completing their training. Graduates gathered for the ceremony at the Airport Crowne Plaza, where state leaders and program partners recognized their accomplishments. Graduate Ethan Blake from Fishers said the program gave him an on-ramp to success and the tools needed to navigate the new workforce. The training facility prepares students to become fiber technicians, teaching core skills from basic cabling techniques to advanced installation and network connections. Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich told graduates they are helping build the future of America and Indiana and challenged them to never stop learning. The graduation comes as Meta continues to expand its physical footprint across Indiana, including major data center developments in Lebanon and Jeffersonville. Meta partners with the National Urban League, the Associated Builders and Contractors, CBRE, and community partners including the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, STRIVE, Boone County Economic Development Corporation (IN), Richland Parish Chamber of Commerce (LA), Workforce Solutions Borderplex (