(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded Bellingham Technical College and Spokane Falls Community College, who received federal grants of $2,748,247 and $1,421,169, respectively, through the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training grant program, a U.S. Department of Labor initiative to expand targeted training programs for unemployed workers, especially those impacted by foreign trade.
“Washington state is home to dozens of thriving industries and one of our nation’s strongest workforces, but global economic shifts and crises have dramatically impacted workers and communities across our state, so I’m thrilled these programs in Bellingham and Spokane Falls will receive federal funds to re-train workers and put Washingtonians back on the job,” said Senator Murray, “As our nation continues to recover from recession, it’s never been more important to re-invest in our workforce, and I applaud the Department of Labor for selecting these applicants in important communities that help drive the economy for our state and region.”
Nationally, 57 grants were announced today, supporting 190 projects in at least 183 schools in every state plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The grants will expand programs in growing industries, such as advanced manufacturing, transportation and health care, and encourage geographic and industry sector collaboration through the development of both statewide and multistate college consortia. The U.S. Department of Labor is implementing and administering the program in coordination with the U.S. Department of Education. All course materials developed using these public funds will be available through the Open Educational Resources initiative so that others can access and build on successful training models. The U.S. Department of Commerce is also encouraging employers to collaborate with local colleges eligible for funding through this program.
Learn more about the grant program.
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