HARRISBURG, Pa. — Young adults with prior justice system involvement are entering Pennsylvania’s construction workforce after completing the first cohort of the Shapiro Administration’s Construct PA training program, state officials announced Wednesday.
.jpg)
The initiative, created under a July 2023 executive order establishing the Commonwealth Workforce Transformation Program (CWTP), is designed to address labor shortages tied to major infrastructure projects while expanding career pathways for young Pennsylvanians.
The four-week accelerated training program equips participants ages 18 to 24 with industry-recognized credentials and direct employer connections.
Graduates earned a PennDOT Transportation Construction Inspector certification and gained hands-on experience with earthwork equipment and concrete testing, resulting in additional specialized certifications. Participants also completed worksite safety training, safe driving instruction and flagging certification. Coursework covered construction math, blueprint reading, professionalism and employment skills.
The first cohort trained in Harrisburg. Officials expect the program to expand to additional communities across the Commonwealth this year.
Eligible applicants must be between 18 and 24 years old, have prior contact with the justice system, hold a GED or high school diploma and possess a valid driver’s license.
Josh Shapiro’s administration launched Construct PA as part of a broader workforce development push connected to federal infrastructure investments.
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll said the initiative supports both infrastructure needs and workforce development.
“Infrastructure is critical to supporting Pennsylvanians and our economy, and maintaining and growing the industry’s workforce is crucial,” Carroll said. “The department is proud to support these graduates in building their careers while we also expand the infrastructure workforce.”
Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said Construct PA creates a clear pathway for young adults seeking stable careers by providing credentials, hands-on experience and direct employer connections.
Since taking office, Shapiro’s administration has increased funding for vocational and career education programs by nearly 50%, from $118 million to $183 million, according to state officials.
.jpg)
The governor’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes $12.5 million for worker training through WEDnetPA, $6.3 million for Industry Partnerships in high-growth sectors such as health care and transportation, $7 million for the Schools-to-Work program and a $1 million increase for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
CWTP and Construct PA are supported by federal dollars from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Beyond job training, the programs provide supportive services including assistance with childcare costs, transportation and professional development. Participants also receive safety gear and personal protective equipment needed to complete training and begin employment.
State officials said the initiative aims to help address workforce shortages while connecting young adults to long-term careers in construction and public infrastructure projects across Pennsylvania.
Originally reported by Maryann Pugh in My Chesco.
.webp)
