Shapiro admin makes funding available to train manufacturing workers

Funding to help train skilled manufacturing workers is being made available by the Shapiro administration.

Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger announced the department is accepting applications for Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career (MTTC) Program funding to invest in the state’s manufacturing industry. 

Governor Josh Shapiro secured $4.7 million for MTTC in the 2026-27 he signed on July 12. DCED is accepting applications through June 30, 2027, or until the program’s funding is expended. 

“Governor Shapiro understands that we must invest in our workforce for Pennsylvania’s economy to thrive,” Siger said in a statement. “By securing $4.7 million for the MTTC Program in his 2026-27 budget, the governor is ensuring we can help provide the next generation of manufacturing workers with the skills they need for rewarding careers, while also further strengthening this important industry in Pennsylvania.” 

The MTTC Program provides grant opportunities to Pennsylvania school districts, trade and technical schools, community colleges, and non-profit organizations. The program is designed to help identify and train a skilled workforce for existing or future open positions, build awareness of manufacturing career opportunities with youth or people with barriers to employment, and help provide more skilled workers for manufacturers. 

The bipartisan 2026-27 budget increases career and technical education funding by $10 million. Pennsylvania’s annual investment in workforce development initiatives — including career and technical education, vo-tech, registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships — has grown 60%, from $118 million before Shapiro took office to its current $193 million. 

“Pennsylvania’s manufacturers depend on a skilled workforce, and that workforce depends on access to high-quality training and career pathways,” said Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Governor Shapiro is making historic investments to expand workforce development opportunities across the commonwealth, and programs like Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career help connect Pennsylvanians to family-sustaining careers while ensuring employers have the talent they need to compete and grow.” 

The Shapiro administration recently awarded more than $1.6 million for 10 projects giving schools, training providers, and organizations the resources needed for careers in the skilled trades and manufacturing, and provide hands-on training opportunities.