Tech companies racing to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure are increasingly running into a challenge that has little to do with software or chips: finding enough skilled workers to build and maintain the facilities powering the AI boom.

Meta President and Vice Chairman Dina Powell McCormick and mikeroweWORKS Foundation CEO Mike Rowe joined FOX Business’ Maria Bartiromo on “Mornings with Maria” to discuss America’s Workforce Academy, a new training initiative aimed at connecting workers with skilled-trade careers tied to data center and infrastructure development.

The program comes as major technology companies invest billions of dollars in new AI-related projects across the United States. Expanding that infrastructure requires electricians, fiber technicians, welders and other skilled workers, many of whom remain in short supply as demand accelerates.

Powell McCormick said the initiative is designed to help workers access training without stepping away from their current jobs for extended periods. Participants receive paid training, earn industry-recognized credentials and are guaranteed a job opportunity upon completion.

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Those workforce needs have become increasingly important as policymakers and business leaders frame AI development as part of a broader competition with China. Building data centers, power infrastructure and communications networks requires a large pipeline of trained workers capable of supporting long-term expansion.

“If the country, if America doesn’t come together and ensure that we frankly treat these workers as the American heroes that they are, without them, we can’t compete with China,” Powell McCormick said.

Rowe, whose foundation has spent years promoting careers in the skilled trades, said many of the jobs needed for the next phase of infrastructure growth remain largely overlooked despite offering strong earning potential.

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“The jobs we’re talking about, by and large, exist out of sight and out of mind,” Rowe said.

Meta said the academy will initially launch in Louisiana, Ohio, Indiana and Texas, with plans to help connect workers to careers supporting the growing demand for American infrastructure and AI development.

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SYDNEY — Qantas has launched a significant mid-year sale offering discounts on more than 1.4 million domestic economy seats, providing Australian travelers with opportunities for affordable travel across the country from late July 2026 through May 2027.

The national carrier announced the promotion on Wednesday, targeting 190 routes and nearly 60 destinations. One-way fares on 33 routes are available for under $150, while 59 routes offer tickets below $200. The sale runs until 11:59 p.m. on June 16, 2026, or until seats sell out.

Highlights include Sydney to Byron Bay for $105, Melbourne to Adelaide and Hobart for $129, Sydney to the Gold Coast for $129, and various regional services from Sydney to destinations such as Armidale, Tamworth, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Port Macquarie, Wagga Wagga and Albury for $149. Inter-capital flights between major cities are also featured at starting prices around $129.

Qantas Domestic chief executive Markus Svensson highlighted the initiative’s focus on accessibility. “Whether it’s a trip away for school holidays, Christmas or Easter, booking early means one less thing to worry about,” Svensson said. “With 190 routes across almost 60 destinations on sale, there’s something for everyone, from coastal escapes to outback adventures, there’s no shortage of reasons to book.”

Boost for Domestic Travel Recovery

The sale arrives as Australia’s domestic aviation sector continues its post-pandemic recovery, with rising demand for leisure and family travel. Qantas, which holds a substantial share of the domestic market alongside Virgin Australia and regional operators, aims to stimulate bookings during traditionally slower periods and encourage advance planning.

Industry observers note that such promotions help fill seats on less popular routes and support regional economies dependent on tourism. Destinations like Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and Tasmania are expected to see particular interest, offering beach getaways, cultural experiences and natural attractions at reduced costs.

Travelers booking early can lock in significant savings compared to peak pricing, especially for school holiday periods and major events. The discounted fares apply to economy class on Qantas and QantasLink services, covering both direct and connecting itineraries across the vast Australian continent.

Context in Competitive Aviation Market

Qantas operates one of the world’s most extensive domestic networks, serving remote communities as well as major cities. The sale underscores the airline’s strategy to maintain competitiveness amid fluctuating fuel costs, labor pressures and evolving consumer preferences for value-driven travel.

Domestic air travel in Australia has rebounded strongly since pandemic restrictions eased, with passenger numbers approaching or exceeding pre-2020 levels on many routes. However, price sensitivity remains high amid cost-of-living concerns, making targeted discounts an effective tool for stimulating demand.

The promotion covers travel dates starting July 22, 2026, providing flexibility for summer holidays in the Southern Hemisphere, end-of-year festivities and early 2027 escapes. Regional routes, which often face higher relative costs, feature prominently, potentially benefiting smaller communities.

Broader Travel Trends in Australia

Australian domestic tourism plays a vital role in the national economy, supporting jobs in hospitality, retail and transport sectors. Qantas’s move aligns with efforts by tourism boards and operators to boost visitation to regional areas, which have historically lagged behind international recovery.

Experts suggest the sale could encourage more Australians to explore their own country, particularly as international travel resumes fully. Popular routes like Sydney to the Gold Coast and Melbourne to Hobart cater to both short breaks and longer vacations, while regional connections support business and family travel.

Analysts monitoring the sector note that airlines increasingly use data analytics to optimize pricing and capacity. Qantas’s decision to discount 1.4 million seats reflects confidence in filling aircraft through volume rather than premium yields on every flight.

Practical Advice for Travelers

Prospective passengers are advised to book promptly through the Qantas website or app, as popular routes and dates are likely to sell quickly. Travelers should review terms and conditions, including change and cancellation policies, which may differ for sale fares.

Flexibility in travel dates can yield even greater savings. Families, in particular, may benefit from planning around school holidays, while business travelers could combine leisure segments with work commitments on discounted services.

Comparisons with competitor offerings are recommended, though Qantas’s extensive network provides unique access to many regional destinations. Additional fees for checked baggage, seat selection or other ancillaries should be factored into total costs.

Qantas’s Strategic Position

As Australia’s flag carrier, Qantas maintains a strong brand reputation for safety and reliability. The airline has invested in fleet modernization and sustainability initiatives, including sustainable aviation fuel trials and carbon offset programs, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.

The current sale follows other promotional activity aimed at rebuilding loyalty and market share. Qantas continues to face scrutiny on issues such as pricing practices and customer service in some quarters, but promotional efforts like this demonstrate responsiveness to consumer demand for affordability.

Economic and Industry Implications

The aviation sector contributes billions to Australia’s GDP annually. Sustained promotions can help stabilize employment for pilots, cabin crew and ground staff while supporting allied industries. Regional airports and tourism operators stand to gain from increased passenger flows.

Looking ahead, analysts anticipate continued volatility in fuel prices and potential capacity adjustments across carriers. Qantas’s ability to balance load factors with profitable yields will be key to its performance in the coming financial year.

The sale period until mid-June gives consumers a narrow window to secure deals for travel extending nearly a year forward. This forward-booking approach benefits both passengers, who gain certainty, and the airline, which improves revenue forecasting.

Consumer Response and Outlook

Early indications suggest strong interest, with many travelers taking advantage of the limited-time offers. Social media and travel forums have highlighted specific bargains, amplifying the promotion’s reach organically.

As Australia’s largest airline, Qantas plays a pivotal role in connecting the nation’s vast geography. Initiatives like this sale reinforce its position while addressing criticisms regarding accessibility and pricing for average consumers.

Travel industry bodies have welcomed the move, noting its potential to stimulate economic activity in destination regions. With winter approaching in the south and summer in the north, the timing aligns well with seasonal travel patterns.

In summary, Qantas’s decision to discount 1.4 million seats represents one of the more substantial domestic promotions in recent memory. It provides tangible value for Australian households seeking affordable getaways while supporting broader tourism recovery efforts.

Travelers are encouraged to act swiftly and compare options to maximize benefits. As the sale progresses, remaining availability will likely concentrate on less popular dates and routes, underscoring the advantage of early action.

The promotion highlights ongoing efforts within the aviation industry to adapt to consumer expectations in a post-pandemic environment characterized by greater price consciousness and demand for domestic experiences. Qantas’s extensive reach ensures the benefits extend from major capitals to remote outback communities.

This large-scale discount initiative underscores the competitive dynamics shaping Australian air travel, where major carriers balance profitability with accessibility to maintain market leadership. As the June 16 deadline approaches, many Australians are expected to secure their travel plans for the coming year at significantly reduced costs.

Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce has named Emma Holt as its new chief executive to drive the organisation forward after “a period of significant change and genuine evolution”.

Emma Holt, who has decades of experience in law and academia and is currently Chamber president, will take up the CEO role next month.

Emma has 25 years experience in the legal profession, taking senior leadership roles including that of managing partner at Pannone. For the past seven years she has worked at Manchester Metropolitan University Business School as Programme Leader for the MBA, Global Online MBA and MSc Finance and Strategy programmes, She also leads modules in business law and a module focusing on employability skills for undergraduates.

As president of the Chamber she has focused on areas including diversity, equality, sustainability and skills.

Greater Manchester Chamber was sold out of administration last year, with managers vowing a “seamless transition” and the continuation of its core services. In a statement today, the Chamber said it was aiming “to strengthen its position as the definitive, independent voice of business in Greater Manchester”, and added that “Emma’s appointment sends a clear signal about the direction of travel”.

Wayne Jones OBE, chair of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: “The development of the Chamber over the past nine months has been clear for our members, and the wider business community, to see. Emma brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership insight, and a genuine understanding of our region. I have every confidence in this appointment. Emma will lead the organisation from strength to strength as we build on the solid foundations now in place.”

Emma said: ‘I am delighted to take up the role of CEO. At its heart, the Chamber is here for business. In this ever-changing world, I look forward to leading the Chamber in championing our business community and supporting the success and growth of business and the economy throughout the Greater Manchester city region; bringing together commerce, community and culture.”

Once Emma takes up her new role as CEO, a new Chamber President will be named.

NEW YORK — With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to begin on June 11 across the United States, Mexico and Canada, attention turns to the 12 groups of four teams each in the expanded 48-team tournament. The top two from every group plus the eight best third-place finishers will advance to the round of 32, creating more opportunities for surprises but still favoring established powers in most pools.

Analysts and betting markets largely expect the strongest nations to progress, though home advantage for the co-hosts and competitive matchups add layers of intrigue. Here is a breakdown of each group with predicted advancers based on current form, FIFA rankings, Elo ratings and expert consensus as of early June.

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czechia Hosts Mexico enter as clear favorites with home crowd support at Estadio Azteca for the opener. South Korea and Czechia battle for the second spot, while South Africa faces an uphill climb. Predicted advancers: Mexico and South Korea. Mexico’s experience and passionate support give them a strong edge, while South Korea’s organization makes them likely to edge Czechia.

Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina/Italy/Northern Ireland/Wales playoff winner, Qatar, Switzerland Co-host Canada benefits from home advantage and a relatively favorable draw. Switzerland brings European quality, while Qatar and the playoff winner add uncertainty. Predicted advancers: Canada and Switzerland. Canada’s momentum as hosts and Switzerland’s consistency position them to top the group.

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland Brazil remains a perennial contender despite transitional questions. Morocco’s recent strong showings make them dangerous, while Haiti and Scotland face tougher paths. Predicted advancers: Brazil and Morocco. Brazil’s talent depth and Morocco’s resilience should see them through comfortably.

Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey (or playoff winner) Co-host United States draws significant support on home soil. Paraguay and Australia offer physicality, while Turkey brings European flair. Predicted advancers: United States and Turkey. The Americans’ home advantage and Turkey’s quality give them the nod.

Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador Germany enters with renewed ambition after recent rebuilds. Ecuador and Ivory Coast provide competitive balance. Predicted advancers: Germany and Ecuador. Germany’s pedigree and Ecuador’s organization make them strong candidates.

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia The Netherlands boasts attacking talent, while Japan, Sweden and Tunisia bring discipline and counter-attacking threats. Predicted advancers: Netherlands and Japan. The Dutch creativity and Japan’s tactical execution should prevail.

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand Belgium features experienced stars, while Egypt and Iran offer defensive solidity. Predicted advancers: Belgium and Egypt. Belgium’s individual quality edges them ahead.

Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay Spain leads early power rankings with youthful dynamism. Uruguay brings Copa America pedigree. Predicted advancers: Spain and Uruguay. Spain’s current form makes them group winners, with Uruguay’s experience securing second.

Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway France boasts one of the deepest squads. Senegal provides athleticism. Predicted advancers: France and Senegal. France’s star power and Senegal’s organization stand out.

Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, head a favorable group. Predicted advancers: Argentina and Austria. Argentina’s championship pedigree makes them heavy favorites.

Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia Portugal features Cristiano Ronaldo in what may be his final tournament. Colombia adds South American flair. Predicted advancers: Portugal and Colombia. Portugal’s depth and Ronaldo’s leadership give them the advantage.

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama England enters with high expectations. Croatia brings veteran know-how. Predicted advancers: England and Croatia. England’s squad quality and Croatia’s tournament experience should see them advance.

Overall Favorites and Potential Upsets

Spain, France, Argentina, England and Brazil lead most pre-tournament power rankings and betting odds for the title, with Portugal, Germany and the Netherlands close behind. Co-hosts Mexico, United States and Canada benefit from familiar conditions and fan support, boosting their advancement chances.

The expanded format means 32 teams advance, offering more room for surprises. However, the top nations’ depth and preparation make clean group exits likely in most cases. Potential upsets could come from well-organized sides like Morocco, Japan or Senegal if favorites falter.

Key factors across groups include injury management, adaptation to North American venues and travel, and tactical execution in the group stage’s three-match format. Home advantage for co-hosts adds an intangible edge, particularly in early matches.

Path to Knockouts and Beyond

Advancing teams will face a demanding knockout bracket with matches spread across the three host nations. The round of 32 begins in late June, leading to the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Depth and squad rotation will prove decisive as the tournament intensifies.

Analysts project high-scoring groups and competitive battles, with the co-host openers on June 11 setting an exciting tone. Mexico vs. South Africa and subsequent fixtures will provide early indications of form.

Global Anticipation Builds

The 2026 edition promises record viewership and attendance as the first tri-nation World Cup. Fans worldwide are analyzing groups to identify dark horses and potential Cinderella stories. While favorites dominate predictions, football’s unpredictability ensures drama.

Coaches and players have emphasized preparation and adaptability. For underdogs, securing points against stronger opponents early could open doors to historic progression.

As the tournament approaches, these group predictions offer a baseline, but on-field performances will ultimately decide who reaches the knockout rounds. The blend of established powers and motivated challengers sets the stage for a memorable summer of football across North America.

With strong favorites in nearly every group, the path to 32 teams advancing appears relatively straightforward on paper. Yet history shows that home support, tactical surprises and individual brilliance can rewrite expectations. The 2026 World Cup group stage promises compelling storylines from Mexico City to Toronto and beyond.

The IPO of Utkal Speciality Industries India opened for subscription on Wednesday, seeking to raise Rs 34.5 crore through a fresh issue of shares. The SME issue, which will close on June 12, is priced in the range of Rs 62-66 per share and will be listed on the NSE SME platform. The company has fixed the lot size at 2,000 shares, requiring a minimum investment of Rs 2.64 lakh for retail investors at the upper end of the price band.

Despite the issue opening for subscription, the stock is currently commanding zero grey market premium (GMP), indicating a muted listing expectation in the unofficial market. At the current GMP, the shares are expected to list around the issue price of Rs 66, although grey market trends can change significantly before listing.

The IPO consists entirely of a fresh issue of 52.34 lakh shares, with no offer-for-sale component. Following the issue, the company’s shareholding will increase from 1.43 crore shares to 1.95 crore shares.

The company plans to utilise the proceeds primarily for expansion and debt reduction. About Rs 11 crore will be used towards repayment or prepayment of borrowings, Rs 9.6 crore will fund machinery purchases for a new manufacturing facility in Khurda, Odisha, while Rs 5.3 crore has been earmarked for working capital requirements.

Incorporated in 2015, Utkal Speciality Industries manufactures paper-based products and packaging materials catering to a diverse customer base that includes manufacturers and retailers. The company offers paper-based alternatives for packaging and consumer applications amid growing demand for sustainable products.

The company operates an integrated manufacturing facility and cites its strategic location on the Kolkata-Chennai highway, diversified product portfolio and lower freight costs due to proximity to southern suppliers as key competitive advantages.
Financially, the company has reported steady growth in profitability. For FY25, revenue stood at Rs 50.3 crore, while net profit rose to Rs 6.68 crore from Rs 3.24 crore a year earlier. EBITDA increased to Rs 9.22 crore from Rs 6.19 crore during the same period.For the nine months ended December 2025, the company reported revenue of Rs 40.9 crore and profit after tax of Rs 5.48 crore.

The IPO allocation structure is tilted towards retail investors, who have been allocated 59.4% of the net issue. Non-institutional investors have been allotted 39.6%, while qualified institutional buyers have been reserved only 1% of the issue.

Affinity Global Capital Market is the book-running lead manager to the issue, while Cameo Corporate Services is acting as registrar. Giriraj Stock Broking is the market maker.

The allotment is expected to be finalised on June 15, with shares likely to be credited on June 16. The stock is scheduled to make its market debut on June 17.

With the GMP currently at zero, investors will closely watch subscription levels over the next three days to gauge whether demand improves ahead of listing.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of Economic Times)