The Pennsylvania Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Program (MTTC) recently awarded the River Valley School District a $200,000 grant to prepare students for electrical careers in residential, commercial, industrial, and lineman occupations.
The district serves a portion of northern Westmoreland County and approximately 1,500 students in southern Indiana County.
The River Valley School District plans to use the funding to offer workforce development programs for occupations that have projected employment increases by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry and the Pennsylvania In-Demand Occupation lists. Participating students in grades nine through 12 will learn the skills they need through classroom, lab, and apprenticeship trainings.
“High school students benefit from career skills training, preparing them to enter the workforce in high-demand occupations or to continue their education in a chosen field,” Philip Martell, River Valley School District superintendent of schools, said. “The River Valley STEAM Academy provides students with educational opportunities that are relevant to them and gives them real-world skills and experience. The Training-to-Career grant will help River Valley School District further its mission to prepare students for their futures by bridging the gap between industry and education.”
MTTC works collaboratively with local manufacturers to advance capacity for local or regional manufacturers, engage youth or those with barriers to career opportunities in manufacturing, and identify and teach missing essential skills for entry-level applicants seeking manufacturing employment.