Alliance receives nearly $103,000 grant for training initiative development

The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) recently received a $102,805 Pennsylvania Manufacturing Training-to-Career grant for manufacturing career training, which will be provided to the underemployed or unemployed with employment barriers, including those for whom English is a second language.

Participants in the training program will receive skill certification to meet the needs of manufacturers and acquire entry-level jobs. The grant will provide training to 66 people over a 10-week period.

Participants also will attend classes in effective work habits, time management, customer service and basic business math.

“This new training program will be transformative for our local workforce and manufacturers,” Randy Peers, GRCA president and CEO, said. “The program is designed to empower participants with the enhanced language and adaptive skills that are necessary to thrive in the new manufacturing environment. We are changing lives while creating a pipeline of motivated prospective employees to help our local manufacturers succeed today and in the future.”

Institutions eligible for the career grant include universities, technical and trade schools, and nonprofit organizations that develop training programs and partner with a minimum of two manufacturers.

The grant is part of the Manufacturing PA Initiative designed to enhance the competitiveness and growth of manufacturing companies in Pennsylvania.