Gov. Tom Wolf announced Wednesday approximately $2.6 million in Teacher in the Workplace grants supporting 59 grants programs across Pennsylvania.
“These grants enable teachers to visit local employers and learn about the skills and knowledge their students need to succeed in today’s workforce,” Wolf said. “Teachers bring that experience to their classrooms to develop lessons that teach students the skills they will need for those good jobs. Teachers can also tell students and parents about the new and growing careers available in their community. Many of the rewarding jobs offer good pay and students will be ready for a trade school, community college, four-year college or an apprenticeship.”
Last year, the Wolf Administration provided approximately $2 million in grants, which enabled approximately 1,200 educators to participate in 48 programs.
The governor’s 2019-20 budget proposes $5 million in federal funds to continue expanding the program.
In Lackawanna County, the Teacher in the Workplace program is helping General Dynamics Land Systems work with local teachers to highlight careers in manufacturing and other sectors.
“We collectively need to close the skills gap by supporting and expanding programs such as Teacher in the Workplace,” Frank Fata, director of Scranton plant operations for General Dynamics Land Systems, said. “It’s our responsibility to enlighten teachers, students and other supportive organizations of the high demand for advanced technical careers. Manufacturing and the associated technologies are rapidly evolving, which require a steady stream of tech-savvy builders, fabricators and innovators to insure success in the global markets of today.”