Gaydos Announces $535,000 in Grants for Parkway West CTC

January 14, 2025

OAKDALE – Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) is pleased to announce two major grants for Parkway West Career and Technology Center (CTC) totaling $535,000. These funds will support the center's efforts to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the local workforce.

The first grant, an $85,000 award from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) through the Career and Technical Centers Competitive Equipment Grants program, will allow Parkway West CTC to update and purchase equipment used in the training of students in career and technical education programs. The equipment is designed to align with the needs of local employers, ensuring students are gaining hands-on experience to prepare them for high-demand careers.

“This grant is a direct investment in the future of our students and local workforce,” said Gaydos. “By equipping our students with cutting-edge tools and skills, we are helping them build strong career paths and contribute to the continued growth of our region’s economy.”

The second grant, a $450,000 award from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), will support Parkway West CTC’s expansion of its welding program. The grant will be used to construct an outdoor welding lab, allowing the school to train more students and address the growing skills gap in the local job market. The new facility will increase employment opportunities and contribute to the economic well-being of the community.

“With the increasing demand for skilled trades professionals, it’s more important than ever to provide students with the training they need to succeed,” said Gaydos. “These grants will allow Parkway West CTC to expand its programs and help meet the growing interest in fields like welding, ultimately supporting the region’s workforce and economy.”

The Career and Technical Centers Competitive Equipment Grants program provides funding for school entities to update or purchase equipment for training students in approved career and technical education programs. The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) provides tax credits to businesses that contribute to nonprofit organizations’ efforts to revitalize communities and foster job creation, economic growth and workforce development across Pennsylvania.

Representative Valerie Gaydos
44th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Rick Leiner
717.260.6437
rleiner@pahousegop.com
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