; (B) encourage educational institutions to provide students with mentors and equip students with the skills, training, and technical expertise necessary to fill the employment opportunities vital to managing and operating energy-related industries; (C) provide internships, fellowships, traineeships, apprenticeships, and employment at the Department of Energy, including at National Laboratories; (D) provide research grants and technical assistance to institutions of higher education, with priority given to minority-serving institutions; (E) provide students and other candidates for employment with the necessary skills and certifications for skilled, semiskilled, and highly skilled jobs in energy-related industries; (F) ensure that the program is in alignment with the Minorities in Energy Initiative of the Department of Energy; (G) engage with other programs and laboratories in the Department of Energy that are carrying out the Minorities in Energy Initiative of the Department of Energy; and (H) to the maximum extent practicable, collaborate with and support State workforce development programs to maximize the efficiency of the program. (2) Priority In carrying out the program, the Secretary shall prioritize the education and training of underrepresented groups for jobs in energy-related industries. (c) Direct assistance (1) In general To carry out the program, the Secretary shall provide direct assistance (including financial assistance awards, technical expertise, and guidance on internships) to educational institutions, local workforce development boards, State workforce development boards, nonprofit organizations, labor organizations, and apprenticeship programs. (2) Distribution The Secretary shall distribute direct assistance under paragraph (1) in a manner that— (A) is proportional to the needs of, and demand for jobs in, an energy-related industry