Department of Labor & Industry visits manufacturing facility, following proposed STEM education and training investment

Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Deputy Secretary Eileen Cipriani recently visited Victaulic manufacturing facility in Easton, following Gov. Tom Wolf’s PAsmart proposed investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics STEM education and skills training.

“Pennsylvania needs skilled and knowledgeable professionals across industries, but particularly in fields that require STEM education and training, because nearly 300,000 jobs in Pennsylvania already require STEM skills,” Cipriani said. “By 2028, more than 70 percent of new jobs will require some STEM background. Governor Wolf’s PAsmart proposal will work to help Pennsylvanians gain the real-world skills they need.”

The proposed investment would provide $25 million to bolster STEM and computer science education and training, as well as $10 million to advance career and technical education and STEM career paths.

Cipriani toured the manufacturing facility, including its engineering lab and its automation and robotics equipment. Victaulic recently introduced its first robot to the facility. The Victaulic Virtual Design and Construction team also gave Cipriani a demonstration of the company’s virtual reality software, which it says could enable teams to work more efficiently in construction.

“Approximately one-half of job openings at Victaulic is in a STEM-related field, and we expect that number to increase in the future,” Carlos Valdes, director of human resources at Victaulic, said. “Government, industry and educational institutions need to partner together to ensure we prepare workers for the technological demands of the future. A well-skilled workforce also reinforces Victaulic’s commitment to bringing innovative solutions and services to our customers in the construction industry.”