Pa. grants $200k to Bucks County Community College for workforce training program

Bucks County Community College is looking to spread the word about its free workforce training programs.

On Jan. 14, the Newtown-based institution was approved for a $200,000 grant from the state, targeted for expanding awareness of the school’s Metalwork Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program, a free 12-week course at the college.

“By supporting apprenticeship programs, we’re strengthening Pennsylvania’s workforce and helping manufacturing companies secure fully-trained, long-term workers,” said Gov. Wolf.

The metalwork training program at BCCC includes soft skills training, job shadowing opportunities, and individualized job placement assistance with partnering employers.

After finishing the program, apprentices will have completed 288 hours of training and received certifications in OSHA10, forklift safety, National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Certification Exam for Measurement, Materials, and Safety Level I.

“We are thrilled to receive this funding…” said Susan Herring, executive director of the Center for Workforce Development at Bucks County Community College. “[The Grant] will allow us to make students, parents, and job seekers aware of these free training programs which provide life-changing opportunities and high-paying careers in manufacturing.”

The funding for the pre-apprenticeship program is part of the state’s Manufacturing PA initiative, which was launched in October of 2017, and has since funded 35 projects, according to Gov. Wolf’s office.