Investment in Manufacturing Careers Aims to Bridge Workforce Gaps in Pennsylvania
A $100,000 Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career grant was also awarded to Crispus Attucks York to help prepare economically distressed young people for good paying manufacturing careers.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-2026 budget proposal doubles down on his commitment to increasing skilled workers and closing workforce gaps across the Commonwealth.
York, PA – New Funding Supports Manufacturing Training for Youth
The Shapiro Administration is investing $100,000 in a Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career (MTTC) grant to boost manufacturing career opportunities for young adults in South Central Pennsylvania. Announced by Gwen Ross, Director of Workforce Development Initiatives at the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), this initiative will channel resources into the Crispus Attucks York program, aiming to foster a skilled workforce.
This program will cater to 18-to-24-year-olds from low-income backgrounds, focusing on reducing unemployment within this demographic. Crispus Attucks York, in collaboration with the Manufacturers’ Association and a dozen local employers, will deliver a seven-week training regimen. This training is designed to equip participants with essential technical skills, problem-solving capabilities, and safety practices, ultimately leading to apprenticeships and job placements for 20 participants annually.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration is pushing forward with a robust plan to cultivate the workforce needed for Pennsylvania’s growing manufacturing sector. His 2025-2026 budget proposal is heavily focused on investing in workforce development to match the industry’s demands.
Addressing Workforce Needs
“Engaging young people who want to enter the workforce with advanced technology experiences helps place them on the path to rewarding manufacturing careers while also meeting the needs of the industry,” stated Director Ross. The administration prioritizes workforce development, understanding its vital role in business success, employee advancement, and community prosperity.
The manufacturing sector in South Central Pennsylvania is on a growth trajectory, requiring over 11,000 new workers annually. By 2029, it is projected to need up to 13,000 trained employees as advanced manufacturing industries expand.
Barry Freeland, Employment & Training Director at Crispus Attucks York, expressed, “At Crispus Attucks York, we Give Rise to Possible, and this grant embodies our mission in action.” He added, “This MTTC grant will fund our Manufacturing to Career training program, paving the way for students to secure stable, well-paying careers. It will also support local manufacturers in need of reliable, skilled employees, strengthen CA’s role as a workforce development leader, and support York’s thriving and diverse community with engaged, tax-paying residents.”
The MTTC grant program works closely with local manufacturers to identify necessary skills for entry-level workers, engaging youth and those facing career entry barriers in manufacturing, and enhancing the capacity of regional manufacturers.
Further Budget Investments
Governor Shapiro’s administration is committed to making Pennsylvania a leader in economic development and innovation. The 2024-25 budget made significant strides towards this goal, aligning with a 10-year Economic Development Strategy. The proposed 2025-26 budget aims to further this strategy with over $160 million in new and expanded investments to enhance competitiveness, community strength, and address housing needs.
- $12.5 million dedicated to WEDnetPA to expand our workforce and close critical workforce gaps
- $2 million for the creation of Career Connect to build internships at Pennsylvania companies
- $50 million to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and spur life science job growth
- $10 million for AdvancePA tax credits to create high quality jobs across PA
- $50 million investment in Housing Stock Restoration
- $10 million increase for the Act 47 Distressed Municipalities Program to support communities in financial recovery
For more information about the Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career program or DCED, visit the DCED website. Stay updated with agency news through Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
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