Keystone Today

In an effort to enhance the electrician workforce in southwestern Pennsylvania, the state will be providing $200,000 in funding for the River Valley School District of Indiana County through the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Program.

“It is absolutely crucial that we prepare students for good paying, in-demand careers,” said Gov. Tom Wolf. “The funding awarded today will introduce students to the different paths they can follow as an electrician and will prepare them to be successful members of the future workforce.”

Wolf made the announcement on December 16, saying this will prepare students for careers in the residential, commercial, industrial and lineman occupations. The funds are slated for workforce development programs that are projected to have employment increases through studies by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and Pennsylvania In-Demand Occupation list. Students in grades 9-12 will be able to learn in the classroom, the lab and also in apprenticeship training.

“High school students benefit from career skills training, preparing them to enter the workforce in high-demand occupations or to continue their education in a chosen field,” said Philip Martell, Superintendent of Schools at the River Valley School District. “The River Valley STEAM Academy provides students with educational opportunities that are relevant to them and gives them real-world skills and experience. The Training-to-Career grant will help River Valley School District further its mission to prepare students for their futures by bridging the gap between industry and education.”

This is all part of Wolf’s Manufacturing PA Initiative which he launched in October 2017. More than $18 million has helped fund 86 projects over that time. The Training-to-Career program is designed to work with manufacturers to give essential training for future employees through hands-on training as well as time in the classroom.