The provincial government in Wasit increased its budget to support engineering projects, but the eastern province faces an obstacle with the limited number of qualified engineers, the Pentagon said in a statement.

The U.S. team worked with the Wasit Resident Engineer office and private-sector Iraqi engineers to develop an engineering program at Wasit University to develop a pool of qualified engineers.

U.S. officials said the program focused on boosting the capabilities of mid-career professionals in a range of topics, including mechanical design and solid-waste management.

The U.S. team provided $2.5 million to build four new laboratories at the college, including a soils lab and computer facility.

The college plans to offer graduates an internship program in a variety of engineering programs, including positions with the Army Corps of Engineers.