; (2) encouraging the Nation’s educational institutions to equip students with the skills, mentorships, training, and technical expertise necessary to fill the employment opportunities vital to managing and operating the Nation’s energy-related industries; (3) providing students and other candidates for employment with the necessary skills and certifications for skilled, semiskilled, and highly skilled jobs in such energy-related industries; (4) strengthening and more fully engaging Department of Energy programs and laboratories in carrying out the Department’s Minorities in Energy Initiative; and (5) to the greatest extent possible, collaborating with and supporting existing State workforce development programs to maximize program efficiency. (b) Priority In carrying out the program established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall prioritize the education and training of underrepresented groups for jobs in energy-related industries. (c) Direct assistance In carrying out the program established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide direct assistance (including financial assistance awards, technical expertise, and internships) to educational institutions, local workforce development boards, State workforce development boards, nonprofit organizations, labor organizations, and apprenticeship programs. The Secretary shall distribute such direct assistance in a manner proportional to the needs of, and demand for jobs in, energy-related industries, consistent with information obtained under subsections (e)(3) and (i). (d) Clearinghouse In carrying out the program established under subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a clearinghouse to— (1) maintain and update information and resources on training programs for jobs in energy-related industries, including manufacturing, engineering, construction, and retrofitting jobs in such energy-related industries