Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Valerie Gaydos of Allegheny County has announced two grants for Parkway West Career and Technology Center (CTC), amounting to a total of $535,000. These funds are intended to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the local workforce.

The first grant, totaling $85,000, comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Career and Technical Centers Competitive Equipment Grants program. It will enable Parkway West CTC to update and acquire equipment used in student training within career and technical education programs. This equipment is designed to meet the needs of local employers, ensuring that students gain practical experience 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, valued at $450,000, is awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). It will support the expansion of Parkway West CTC’s welding program through constructing an outdoor welding lab. This facility aims to train more students while addressing the skills gap in the job market. The new lab will boost employment opportunities and contribute positively to community economic well-being.

“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 approved career and technical education programs. Meanwhile, NAP offers tax credits to businesses that contribute towards nonprofit efforts aimed at community revitalization as well as job creation across Pennsylvania.