COATESVILLE, PA — State Representative Dan Williams announced that regional organizations in southeastern Pennsylvania with branches in Chester County will receive $1,596,635 in state funding. This initiative aims to foster the creation and expansion of apprenticeship programs that are critical to equipping young people with essential skills while earning a living wage.
The funding targets sectors poised for growth, such as the medical, biomedical, and transportation industries. This strategic investment is designed to address the dual benefit of meeting employer demands for skilled labor and providing career opportunities for job seekers in lucrative fields.
Drexel University will receive $600,000 to bolster its registered apprenticeship for Certified Clinical Medical Assistants. This program will incorporate Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) bridge models to establish an Associate of Registered Nurse program, in collaboration with the Chester County Intermediate Unit. This initiative not only strengthens the healthcare workforce but also creates a pathway for individuals to advance in their medical careers.
The Wistar Institute is allocated $596,990 to enhance its Biomedical Technician Training program. This expansion will create a sustainable apprenticeship network for Quality Control Analysts, accessible to students at Delaware County Community College, which also serves Chester County. By preparing students for roles in biomedical technology, the program supports an industry that is rapidly evolving and essential to modern medicine.
Additionally, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) will receive $399,645 to develop a new welding apprenticeship program. This two-year, paid training will equip participants with the skills necessary for certification, addressing the demand for skilled welders in the transportation sector.
Rep. Williams highlighted the importance of these investments, stating, “This nearly $1.6 million in state funding will help young people gain critical workforce skills while earning a paycheck in these in-demand fields in Chester County.” He emphasized the mutual benefits for job seekers and employers, noting that the programs provide opportunities for young talent to thrive in growing industries while addressing critical workforce gaps.
The broader implications of this funding extend to the local economy. By investing in workforce development, these programs promise to deliver long-term economic benefits through the creation of well-paying, sustainable jobs. This initiative is particularly impactful for underserved communities, offering them access to quality employment opportunities and contributing to a thriving economic landscape in Chester County.
Rep. Williams also reflected on his role in advocating for workforce development, expressing pride in supporting budgets that significantly increased funding for such initiatives. The strategic investment in these apprenticeship programs not only addresses immediate labor needs but also lays the groundwork for sustained economic growth and prosperity in the region.
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