The Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) recently awarded nine local workforce development boards (LWDBs) $1.8 million in registered apprenticeship program grants.
Funding was provided through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Building America initiative, which allows states to expand and modernize registered apprenticeships.
“Pennsylvania’s registered apprenticeship system offers workers the opportunity to learn in-demand skills while they also earn a paycheck,” L&I Secretary Jennifer Berrier said. “For employers, apprenticeship is an investment in their workforce – something especially important for businesses competing for talent in an increasingly tight labor market. These grants will provide further structure and support for apprenticeships, solidifying opportunities to earn family-sustaining wages without taking on debt so individuals can continue to thrive in the commonwealth.”
The Bucks County Department of Workforce and Economic Development and MontcoWorks received $366,666. The organizations will fund a new apprenticeship-focused initiative focused on construction and advanced manufacturing to serve workforce development areas in the Greater Philadelphia region.
The Central Pennsylvania Workforce Development Corporation received $183,333. It will build an apprenticeship ecosystem in the region focused on equity and industry demand.
The Delaware County Workforce Development Board received $183,333 to increase support for employers and sponsors that adopt registered apprenticeships and registered pre-apprenticeships.