Workforce
Under Trump, 317,000 federal workers leave government amid upheaval
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In 2025, President Donald Trump’s return to the White House coincided with a sweeping departure from the federal workforce, with about 317,000 employees leaving through firings, resignations and retirements by year’s end, according to the Office of Personnel Management. A crackdown on diversity initiatives, new performance pressures and uncertainty over job security left morale deeply shaken, as personal stories illustrate the human toll.
A new report urges Illinois to accelerate replacement of nearly 1.5 million lead service lines, estimating it could create up to 90,000 jobs over a decade. The plan calls for prioritizing high-exposure areas and diversifying the workforce amid a multi-billion-dollar funding gap. Advocates highlight the public health crisis posed by the toxic pipes.
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The emerging geothermal energy sector is leveraging the expertise of oil and gas workers to advance drilling techniques for renewable heat sources. Professionals like Mike Fleming, with a background in conventional drilling, have transitioned to geothermal projects, highlighting transferable skills in safety and precision. Government support and industry growth signal potential for broader workforce shifts.