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Governor Shapiro announced a $5 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant to expand the Steamfitters Local 420 Training Center in Philadelphia —allowing them to double the number of apprentices they train yearly.
Under the Governor’s leadership, Pennsylvania has expanded workforce development –increasing funding for vo-tech programs, career and technical education (CTE), and apprenticeships by nearly $65 million, a 50 percent boost – so every Pennsylvanian has the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.
Philadelphia, PA – On April 3rd, Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Secretary Nancy A. Walker joined labor leaders, contractors, and industry stakeholders at Steamfitters Local 420 in Philadelphia to highlight the Shapiro Administration’s historic investments in workforce development. Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, Pennsylvania has expanded workforce development and increased funding for vo-tech programs, career and technical education (CTE), and apprenticeships to historic levels — opening the doors of opportunity for more Pennsylvanians.
Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce to support Pennsylvania’s growing industries, Governor Shapiro announced a $5 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant in 2024 to expand the Steamfitters Local 420 training center in Philadelphia. The $20 million project will create a state-of-the-art facility and train an additional 30 apprentices annually.
Steamfitters Local 420 represents 4,800 members and 425 apprentices across ten counties in southeastern Pennsylvania. The union provides critical training for workers in the mechanical trades, supporting industries like life sciences, energy, and construction. With support from the Shapiro Administration, the expansion of the Local 420 training center will help meet Pennsylvania’s growing workforce needs for years to come.
“There are many paths to success — and here in Pennsylvania, we’ve got to respect and invest in all of them. Through registered apprenticeships, like the ones here at the Steamfitters, thousands of Pennsylvanians have been given the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed,” said Governor Shapiro. “I believe we can connect the dots between our businesses, our schools, and labor – and through investments in vo-tech programs, career and technical education, and apprenticeships, my Administration will continue to be a strong partner in building the best, most highly-trained workforce in the country right here in Pennsylvania.”
"For over 120 years, Steamfitters Local 420 has trained the best, most highly qualified workers in the greater Philadelphia region — and thanks to the support of Governor Shapiro, we're now able expand our operations and our impact," said Steamfitters Local 420 Business Manager Jim Snell. "This $5 million investment from Governor Shapiro will help us build a state-of-the-art training center right here in Northeast Philly, allowing us to train an additional 30 apprentices, creating opportunity for more Pennsylvanians and growing the Commonwealth's economy. We're proud to have a Governor here in Pennsylvania who supports the building trades and is focused on commonsense investments to expand our workforce and grow our economy."
“When we invest in workforce development, we are investing in Pennsylvania’s future and opening doors for people from all backgrounds to secure sustainable, family-supporting jobs, no matter which career path they take,” said Secretary Walker. “The Shapiro Administration is serious about empowering workers and by continuing to invest in apprenticeship programs like those offered through Steamfitters 420. At L&I, we are taking the necessary steps to not only fill the critical workforce shortages of today, but to also build an even stronger workforce for tomorrow.”
Building on Two Years of Workforce Progress
From day one, Governor Shapiro has prioritized workforce development and removed unnecessary barriers to employment. On his first day in office, he signed an executive order opening 92 percent of state government jobs to applicants without a college degree. Today, nearly 60 percent of all new state hires do not have a four-year degree.
In his first two years, Governor Shapiro has increased funding for vo-tech, career and technical education, and apprenticeships by nearly $65 million – marking a 50 percent increase in workforce development investments. Pennsylvania now has 851 registered apprenticeship programs with nearly 15,700 registered apprentices. Since January 2023, 12,779 new apprentices have enrolled, and 87 new apprenticeship programs have been registered.
Investing in the Future: Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 Proposed Budget
Governor Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposal builds on this progress with a strong focus on workforce development, ensuring Pennsylvania continues to close workforce gaps and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. Key workforce initiatives in the proposed budget include:
Additionally, the Governor’s budget proposal makes targeted investments to address workforce shortages in child care, education, and health care, ensuring Pennsylvania families and communities can access essential services they rely on. By raising wages, expanding loan forgiveness, and investing in training, this plan will attract, retain, and sustain a skilled workforce in these critical industries.
The Shapiro Administration has made workforce development a key component of its economic strategy, ensuring that Pennsylvanians from all backgrounds have access to high-quality job training and apprenticeship programs. The Governor’s continued investments in these programs reinforces his commitment to expanding career pathways and creating economic opportunity for Pennsylvanians.
Learn more about the Shapiro Administration’s efforts to invest in Pennsylvania’s workforce and expand job training opportunities in the Governor’s 2025-26 budget proposal at shapirobudget.pa.gov and discover how the Administration is building a competitive workforce for the Commonwealth’s future.