The bill establishes the "Manufacturing Workforce Development Grant Program" aimed at encouraging county colleges in New Jersey to collaborate with local manufacturers to provide internship opportunities for students. The program, created by the Secretary of Higher Education in consultation with the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, seeks to enhance students' readiness for the workforce by offering real workplace experiences alongside traditional classroom learning. Students who complete the program will earn academic credit and a stipend funded by the program. The Secretary will also develop a list of approved manufacturers for partnerships and issue a request for proposals to county colleges detailing the program's purpose, application process, and evaluation criteria.

Funding for the program will be allocated such that 85% of the funds received by participating county colleges will be used for student stipends, while the remaining 15% will cover administrative costs and support career counseling positions. Priority will be given to colleges offering internships in labor demand occupations. Additionally, the Secretary is required to submit an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature detailing partnerships formed, student participation, skills acquired, transfers to four-year institutions, employment offers received, and financial distributions. This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between education and employment in the manufacturing sector.