HUGHESVILLE, PA — The Shapiro Administration is making a bold statement on the future of Pennsylvania’s workforce. On Thursday, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker visited the Lycoming Career and Technology Center (CTC) to celebrate a groundbreaking $5 million investment that will transform the facility, expand its offerings, and prepare countless students for high-demand careers.
A Strategic Push for Skilled Workers
The $5 million grant, part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s ambitious Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), is a game-changer for Lycoming CTC. This funding will power a much-needed expansion and renovation, allowing the center to introduce programs in welding and diesel technology, bring early childhood education training into a unified space, and, importantly, increase enrollment capacity by 150 students.
“This investment is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a commitment to equipping the next generation of workers with the skills they need to succeed,” Secretary Walker asserted during her visit. She emphasized that initiatives like this are central to addressing the state’s skills gap and strengthening the local workforce.
Currently, Lycoming CTC serves hundreds of students, providing hands-on training in trades that are essential to regional industries. With the expansion, the center will be better positioned to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals, from mechanics to early childhood educators.
The Shapiro Administration’s Workforce Vision
Governor Shapiro’s administration has set its sights on overhauling workforce development in Pennsylvania. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who has championed similar efforts statewide, applauded Lycoming CTC for its role in preparing students for well-paying, family-sustaining careers.
“Every Pennsylvanian deserves the freedom to chart their own course and pursue a career that provides for their family. This investment reflects our administration’s dedication to breaking barriers and presenting new opportunities,” Lt. Gov. Davis said.
This grant represents just one slice of the nearly $600 million allocated for more than 400 projects through the RACP program. Each project is designed to drive economic growth, create jobs, and address critical infrastructure needs across the Commonwealth. From training centers to aviation hubs and industrial expansions, these investments reflect a holistic plan to revitalize Pennsylvania.
A Ripple Effect in Lycoming County
The impact of this funding goes far beyond the walls of Lycoming CTC. The expansion not only allows more students to participate but also enriches the local economy by channeling a pipeline of skilled professionals directly into regional industries. Graduates of these programs will enter the workforce prepared to contribute immediately—whether they’re joining manufacturing teams, maintaining fleet vehicles, or nurturing young learners in classrooms.
State Rep. Joe Hamm expressed pride in securing this funding, emphasizing its importance in creating long-term opportunities. “Every student deserves a shot at quality education and skill-building. This grant ensures that more students in our community can receive hands-on training that directly prepares them for the workforce,” Hamm stated.
Lycoming County alone secured multiple RACP awards, underscoring the region’s significance in Pennsylvania’s economic blueprint. Investments include $1 million for the redevelopment of the former Lycoming Mall and $750,000 toward expanding a manufacturing facility in Muncy Township.
Reshaping Career and Technical Education
At a time when the U.S. faces mounting shortages in skilled trades, programs like those at Lycoming CTC are critical. Welding and diesel technology, for instance, are among the sectors experiencing intense hiring pressure. These trades not only provide stable careers but also the potential for lucrative incomes without requiring a four-year college degree—an appealing option for today’s students.
Dr. Craig Skaluba, superintendent of record for Lycoming CTC, highlighted the broader effects of this investment. “This funding enables us to build state-of-the-art facilities and develop programs that directly benefit our community. Our students and their future contributions to the workforce will undoubtedly repay this investment for years to come,” said Dr. Skaluba.
Building a Resilient Workforce
The Shapiro Administration’s continued focus on workforce training and apprenticeship programs reflects a recognition that economic resilience begins with people. By prioritizing investments in career and technical education, Pennsylvania is positioning itself as a leader in bridging the skills gap and preparing its workforce for the industries of tomorrow.
For now, the students at Lycoming CTC can look forward to new opportunities that promise to change the trajectory of their careers—and redefine the future of workforce development in Pennsylvania.
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