PLEASANT GAP — Advance Central PA, in partnership with the Central PA Institute of Science and Technology, has been awarded $400,000 from the state Dept. of
Labor & Industry.
Funded through the Supporting PA’s Advanced Manufacturing Sector initiative, this award will establish a new advanced manufacturing pre-apprenticeship program designed to prepare Centre County students for high-demand manufacturing careers.
“Strong links between education, economic development, and workforce development
are essential to growing and retaining jobs in Central Pennsylvania,” said Erica Mulberger, Executive Director of Advance Central PA. “Investments from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, combined with our partnership with CPI, allow us to provide industry-aligned training and ensure students gain the skills local employers need.”
The program will initially serve 16 students over two cohorts, providing hands-on training in troubleshooting and maintaining electrical and mechanical systems, programmable logic controllers, robotics, and automated systems. Students will have the opportunity to earn multiple Smart Automation Certification Alliance certifications, demonstrating verified skills and knowledge valued by employers.
Importantly, grant funds will allow CPI to invest in robotics and laser alignment equipment, expanding their training capacity and giving students experience with the same cutting-edge technology they will encounter in the workforce.
“We are increasing moving towards a skills-based economy,” stated Todd Taylor, Vice President of Post-Secondary Education for CPI. “This grant award supporting PA’s manufacturing sector will help create a workforce pipeline to support high-growth, high- wage career opportunities in central Pennsylvania. We are thrilled to partner with
Advance Central PA to provide this opportunity to our local school districts’ students.”
A key component of the initiative includes opportunities for students to enroll in the Advance Central PA In-School Youth program, part of the PA CareerLink network.
Enrolled students will receive career coaching and guidance to overcome barriers, stay on track in the pre-apprenticeship, and successfully transition into a registered
apprenticeship or other employment.
Manufacturing is among the top five industries in Centre County and is projected to grow by 7% over the next five years. With many of the current workers over the age of 45, youth and young adults are significantly underrepresented in the field. This pre-apprenticeship initiative will connect classroom learning with practical skills and certifications, preparing students for in-demand careers and supporting the region’s growing manufacturing workforce.
