The PennZone

Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Tom Wolf announced the approval of new funding for the Iron Worker Apprenticeship Workforce Expansion Project, a program proposed by the Ironworkers Joint Apprenticeship and Journeyman Training Fund to provide opportunities for young men and woman to begin careers as ironworkers. The grant will come from Governor Wolf's Manufacturing PA initiative.

"Our administration remains committed to supporting programs like the Iron Worker Apprenticeship Workforce Expansion Project and providing manufacturers with skilled workers eager to help grow the Pennsylvania economy," Governor Wolf said. "This project will grow employers' talent pools with qualified applicants, while preparing trainees for life-long sustainable careers."

The grant will award $300,000 to the Ironworkers Joint Apprenticeship and Journeyman Training Fund, which will work with Songer Steel Services Inc, Abate Irwin, Chapman Corporation, Avalotis Corporation, Matrix North America, De-Cal, and Century Steel Erectors to carry out the Iron Worker Apprenticeship Workforce Expansion Project.

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The project will train an additional 60 apprentices, further growing the state's manufacturing sector. It will provide opportunities for a diverse group of young Pennsylvanians to jumpstart sustainable trade careers in a growing, high-demand industry. The projected income levels of the jobs will allow these trainees to provide for their families, build a sense of self-worth and continue to be a driving force in growing the economy during their work experience.

"Iron Workers Local #3 Apprenticeship would like to extend our most sincere thanks to Governor Wolf for this Manufacturing PA grant," said Paul Ribarchak, training director for Iron Workers Local Union #3. "The apprenticeship program is the backbone of our union. This grant will allow us to continue training to the highest standards and provide a skilled, on demand workforce for our employers working in Western Pennsylvania's manufacturing facilities."

Governor Wolf's Manufacturing PA initiative was launched in October 2017. This initiative ensures that training leads not simply to any job, but to careers that provide higher pay and opportunities for advancement. Working with DCED's strategic partners, including Industrial Resource Centers (IRCs), Pennsylvania's colleges, universities, technical schools, and non-profit organizations, this initiative fosters collaboration and partnerships to accelerate technology advancement, encourage innovation and commercialization, and build a 21st century workforce.

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For more information about the Wolf Administration's commitment to manufacturing, visit the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) website or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.

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