The Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) recently awarded the Iron Workers Local 404 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) of Dauphin County $297,000 through the Apprenticeship Grant Program.
Funding will be used to expand job training-related opportunities.
The Iron Workers Local 404 apprenticeship program is a three-year program that includes safety training, classroom lectures, training, and equipment suppliers.
Iron Workers Local 404 JATC will collaborate with other unions to update curriculum and training facility updates to make the program more marketable.
“For over 60 years, our program has served as a dependable common ground for certifying craftsmen across 35 counties, and this investment of funds will help us continue to provide an accredited education to hardworking Pennsylvanians,” Dan Hoke, apprenticeship coordinator, said. “Now more than ever, the opportunity to begin a lucrative career in the ever-changing job market is imperative, and we are honored to receive funds that will directly lead to such opportunities.”
Apprenticeships are a component of Gov. Tom Wolf’s PAsmart initiative.
The state’s Pre-Apprentice and Apprenticeship Grant Program offers assistance to registered apprenticeship programs to increase apprenticeship availability to Pennsylvania employers.
Apprenticeship programs help workers develop new knowledge, skills, and abilities to compete in the job market.