HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania is building a better future—literally. The Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) has unveiled a significant $1.5 million investment to expand apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades. This bold step is directed at creating pathways to solid, well-paying jobs while actively tackling the glaring lack of diversity in the field.
“This investment cuts straight to the heart of what Pennsylvania needs—opportunity and inclusion,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. By targeting underrepresented communities, this initiative intends to make the trades accessible to everyone, no matter their background, and build a workforce as diverse as the state it represents.
Shapiro Administration’s Commitment to Workforce Development
Governor Josh Shapiro has made workforce expansion a top priority, infusing more than $65 million into initiatives like apprenticeships, career and technical education (CTE), and vocational-technical programs over the past two budgets—a staggering 50% increase from prior funding levels. These investments showcase a government deeply committed to helping workers of all walks of life gain the skills they need to thrive in today’s job market.
While the trades have traditionally seen low representation of women and minorities—women accounted for just 10.8% of the construction industry in 2023—the L&I initiative aims to flip the script. By focusing on underserved populations, such as women, people of color, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those overcoming socio-economic barriers, the program pivotalizes inclusion.
Funding Local Grassroots Change
The $1.5 million investment is being dispersed across several impactful programs that are already making a difference on the ground. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and everywhere in between, these grants are preparing Pennsylvanians for careers in the trades through hands-on training, skill-building, and localized support. Here’s where the money is going:
- The Philadelphia Academies, Inc. ($199,997): Expanding pre-apprenticeships for high school students in disadvantaged populations, removing barriers to advanced training.
- Construction Apprentice Preparatory Program (CAPP) ($250,000): Preparing women and minorities for a shot at acceptance into trade apprenticeship programs.
- Trade Institute of Pittsburgh (TIP) ($200,000): Empowering returning citizens and individuals facing employment barriers with masonry skills and a fresh start.
- Finishing Trades Institute of the Mid-Atlantic (FTI-MAR) ($241,099): Supporting the Women in Nontraditional Careers (WINC) initiative for training tradeswomen.
The initiative isn’t just about jobs—it’s about restructuring how opportunity works. By funding these vital programs, Pennsylvania is sending a clear message: no one should be left behind.
Breaking Barriers to Build the Future
This investment doesn’t just impact the individuals who will enter these programs—it has far-reaching effects on Pennsylvania’s economy and industries. The state’s construction sector, worth billions, is hungry for skilled labor. By addressing barriers that have historically deterred women, minorities, and socially disadvantaged individuals from entering the trades, Pennsylvania is ensuring its workforce is robust, inclusive, and prepared for the future.
The pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs offer more than just technical skills training. They aim to build lasting bridges between education and employment. Participants tackle a range of topics like math, financial literacy, and technical preparation while gaining hands-on experience in fields like masonry, drywall finishing, and glazing.
But this isn’t simply about filling jobs. It’s about addressing the persistent inequities that limit career advancement for so many. Governor Shapiro’s administration recognizes that when everyone gets a fair shot, the entire economy thrives.
Why This Matters
The importance of this initiative extends beyond workforce development. At its core, it’s about systemic change. Historically, the trades have been dominated by narrow demographics. This funding actively changes that narrative, pushing for fair access and equitable outcomes in an often-overlooked sector.
Grant recipients like the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board (SWCWD) are lifting whole communities by creating access to stable, life-sustaining careers. By targeting vulnerable populations, Pennsylvania is not just building a better workforce—it’s fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
For an industry that builds homes, schools, and hospitals, it’s about time its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
Laying the Foundation for Tomorrow
This investment marks a turning point. It’s a strategy to prepare today’s workforce for tomorrow’s challenges, all while rewriting the rules of accessibility and diversity in the trades. The question is no longer if Pennsylvania is ready for change—the state is building it from the ground up, one apprentice at a time.
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