Summary
The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has announced a significant investment of over $4.1 million in Schools-to-Work Grant Awards to support 17 projects statewide. Among the recipients, the Manufacturers’ Association will receive $250,000 to enhance its Applied Manufacturing Technology Registered Pre-Apprenticeship program, aiming to better prepare high school students for careers in the Advanced Manufacturing sector.
This initiative is crucial as it bridges the gap between education and industry, aligning training with workforce needs in Pennsylvania. With more than 2,500 manufacturers employing 122,000 workers in the region, the expansion of early career exposure and work-based learning opportunities is essential to address the projected need for 37,000 new manufacturing workers over the next decade due to retirements and industry growth.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story highlights the critical role of registered apprenticeship programs in preparing the next generation of skilled workers. By expanding pathways for youth into in-demand industries like manufacturing, we can ensure a robust workforce that meets the evolving needs of employers across the region.
Made in the USA.