HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) has announced an investment of nearly $2.4 million to bolster career preparedness for high school students across the Commonwealth. Through the Schools-to-Work Program (STWP), this funding aims to expand pre-apprenticeships, classroom training, and job shadowing opportunities, providing students with critical tools to transition successfully from education to employment.
This grant allocation will benefit 12 organizations that focus on creating industry-aligned career pathways. By reducing barriers to employment, the initiative seeks to enhance workforce development while addressing skills gaps in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
Under the STWP framework, students will have access to a variety of career readiness options, including mentorships, workplace visits, apprenticeships, and internships. These hands-on experiences are designed to provide practical skills, help students earn industry certifications, and even allow them to earn college credits while still in high school.
Bridging Education and Employment
“Investing in our Schools-to-Work programs bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers, giving students the hands-on experience that simply can’t be replicated in traditional settings,” said Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “By connecting students directly with in-demand industries while they are still in high school, we are clearly defining the path to family-sustaining careers for young Pennsylvanians. These partnerships literally provide the roadmap to a lifelong vocation, and equip students with the essential skills, credentials, and confidence needed to compete in our evolving economy.”
The selected programs span a wide range of industries and geographies, ensuring that students from both urban and rural areas have access to tailored opportunities in their local job markets. The projects will run from June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2027, and represent a commitment to preparing the Commonwealth’s students for the economy of the future.
Funded Projects
The grant recipients include a mix of technical schools, training organizations, workforce boards, and educational institutions. A few highlighted projects include the following:
- NuPaths LLC (Montgomery and Philadelphia counties – $250,000): This program will train 30 students as technical support specialists, combining classroom instruction with hands-on learning and offering opportunities to earn certifications and college credits.
- German American Chamber of Commerce (17 western counties – $250,000): Expanding its Dual Pre-Apprenticeship Program, this initiative will serve 75 students pursuing careers in manufacturing and automotive industries, with pathways to associate degrees and specialized certifications.
- Connellsville Area Career & Technical Center (Fayette County – $250,000): Enhancing an existing registered pre-apprenticeship program, this project will provide expanded hands-on learning, advanced certifications, and additional resources such as a classroom simulator.
- Bethlehem Area School District (Northampton and Lehigh counties – $201,415): Students will engage in advanced manufacturing training through a collaboration with the Industrial Training & Education Consortium of the Lehigh Valley, aligned with registered apprenticeship pathways.
- Manor College (Montgomery and Philadelphia counties – $140,196): Launching a pre-apprenticeship initiative focused on healthcare and early childhood education, this program will offer structured experiences aimed at preparing students for entry-level roles and further education.
Other funded projects address critical workforce needs in areas such as welding, computer-aided design, drafting, cyber technology, and advanced manufacturing, ensuring well-rounded opportunities for students across Pennsylvania.
A Statewide Commitment
The Schools-to-Work Program reflects Pennsylvania’s broader commitment to workforce development and economic growth. The initiative not only addresses immediate employment needs but also equips students with skills and certifications that enhance their lifelong career prospects.
This statewide investment demonstrates the importance of aligning educational pathways with labor market demands, ensuring young Pennsylvanians are ready to contribute to the state’s evolving industries. With the support of federal and state resources, L&I continues to prioritize the development of skilled talent and sustainable career opportunities.
By advancing this initiative, Pennsylvania underscores its dedication to fostering a future-ready workforce while empowering students with the tools, education, and confidence they need to succeed.
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