Caterpillar Inc. is expanding its commitment to the workforce behind technological advancements with the Building the Future Workforce Challenge.
The challenge will offer up to $1 million in awards to attract, retain, and upskill the advanced manufacturing and technician workforce through innovative ideas.
As technology dramatically reshapes the way the world works, Caterpillar is reaffirming its commitment to the people at the heart of innovation.
To ensure employees and customers are equipped to use advanced technologies as new roles emerge, Caterpillar is pledging $25 million over five years to launch a global innovation prize.
The initiative will award up to five $1 million awards in year one for bold ideas that help workers with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital and autonomous environment.
Caterpillar has invested $30 billion in research and development over the past 20 years and plans to increase investment in digital and technology by 2.5 times through 2030.
The innovation prize strengthens Caterpillar's mission, ensuring the workforce has the tools, training, and opportunities to grow alongside the technologies shaping the future.
Christy Pambianchi, chief human resources officer at Caterpillar, emphasizes the importance of unlocking new ideas that help individuals build durable, future-ready skills while strengthening communities.
Organizations must register by 5:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time on Thursday, July 30, 2026, to participate in the challenge and have a chance to win up to $1 million.
The future of work is here, and it's up to all of us — industry, educators, and innovators — to ensure people are ready to succeed in it.
