PA Heavy & Highway receives grant to expand apprenticeship programs

PA Heavy & Highway recently received approval for a grant for $99,000 over three years to expand its apprenticeship program. The program trains workers in construction labor, construction form carpentry, and heavy equipment operation.

The additional funding will provide training for 10 added apprentices to complete a three-year training program. Apprentices in the program are required to attend a minimum of 144 instructional hours per year.

Registered apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with related classes in several fields, which not only reduces employee turnover but helps to recruit younger skilled workers as well.

“Apprenticeships give companies the ability to infuse new talent into their workforce and ensure their employment base is highly skilled and highly trained for years to come,” Gov. Tom Wolf said. “Not only will this grant help employers in the western part of the commonwealth, but it will put workers into family-sustaining careers in the construction and heavy equipment operation fields.”

Wolf made apprenticeships a vital part of his $30 million PAsmart workforce development initiative, which includes a $10 million investment in apprentice work and job training.

The Apprenticeship Training Office administers the programs and provides the needed services to community-based organizations, training providers, businesses, and employers, to help establish and maintain registered apprenticeship programs.