On December 21, 2022, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) announced that $1.2 million in competitive grants was awarded to 33 Career and Technical Centers (CTC) and two school districts to purchase new equipment aligned to training students in high-demand occupations.

“Career and technical centers continually provide excellent educational and professional opportunities for students across the commonwealth,” said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. “Investing in career readiness and career exploration is a priority for PDE, and we encourage recipients to utilize this funding to enhance and expand these learning programs, which will help students excel in their chosen fields.

Under the program, the maximum grant is $50,000, and each grant must be matched dollar-for-dollar from a local source which could include local school funds or contributions from business and industry partners.

The Wolf Administration understands that not every student wants to go to a four-year college, but all students need the training and skills to succeed in today’s economy. To support those efforts, the administration has invested in CTCs and other jobs programs, expanded apprenticeships that provide an income during training and realigned workforce development programs.

Since Gov. Wolf took office, the number of career and technical education students earning industry-recognized credentials has increased by 49.5 percent and the number of credentials earned by students enrolled in CTE programs has grown by 32.6 percent.

There are more than 80 CTCs in Pennsylvania that offer a combination of classes and hands-on learning in programs approved by the Department of Education. Thousands of students earn industry credentials or certifications for local jobs in high demand, so they graduate on a path for success.

To view the awardees, click here.