Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger said the state is investing $40,000 to help train the state’s workforce.
The money would go through the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career (MTTC) program in the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Work Ready program to train community college students in manufacturing. The Cambria County program works with local manufacturers to train students on skills needed to join the workforce, as well as train on career advancement for those looking to take on leadership roles in the manufacturing industry,
“The Shapiro Administration understands that in order for our economy to thrive, we must invest in our workforce,” Siger said. “Our students need skills to successfully begin their careers in Pennsylvania — filling critical positions and building up the Commonwealth’s future for years to come. Partnering with local industry leaders strengthens our workforce pipelines and ensures skilled professionals are meeting the evolving workplace needs of today and tomorrow.”
MTTC funding will be used to train nearly 200 students in Cambria and Somerset counties. In addition to on-the-job training in partnership with local manufacturers, students will learn how to improve soft skills like customer service, communication, time management, and professional etiquette.
Gov. Josh Shapiro’s office said he is committed to investing in classroom to career and apprenticeship programs, and to providing pathways for workers to earn family-sustaining wages.
“DCED’s Manufacturing Training-to-Careers grant represents a critical investment in the future of the program’s participants,” Julie Davis, Director of Workforce Education at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, said. “By bridging classroom instruction with real world manufacturing experience, this grant provides participants with access to industry aligned training. Participants will earn Essential Skills certificates that lead to employment or additional educational opportunities, as well as become equipped with the practical skills that today’s employers seek.”